The Red Badge of Courage

What is the significance of purple and gold in war or as an accolade? Why would this phrase be used to describe Henry's deeds?

Regarding his procession of memory he felt gleeful and unregretting, for in it his public deeds were paraded in great and shining prominence. Those performances which had been witnessed by his fellows marched now in wide purple and gold, having various deflections.

Chapter 24

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He basks in his accomplishments, and as he does he is bathed "in purple and gold." This new color combination is used in its historical connotation of royalty. Henry has now become a hero. Without much fanfare, from himself or others, but still he seems to ascend ranks with these colors.

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The Red Badge of Courage

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