The Red Badge of Courage

Chapter 14: Henry never actually acknowledges his guilt. How does his guiltiness show?

Red Badge of Courage

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An argument breaks out between some soldiers. Wilson, now referred to as "the friend," goes over, and breaks it up. When he returns, Henry remarks at his change. Wilson replies that it is true, he has changed. He tells Henry that the regiment lost half its men the previous day. It was believed that they were dead, but they keep coming back from wherever they had scattered, just like Henry. To this, the youth replies, "So?"

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ttp://www.gradesaver.com/the-red-badge-of-courage/study-guide/section4/

As you can see from the above quote (gradesaver), Henry is sensitive about his actions. Wilson's remark isn't personal, nor is it an accusation that Henry should feel guilty. Henry feels guilty and remark's with a somewhat snippy, "so," because he feels guilty, not because anyone else is aware of what happened.