My Civil War history game was pretty weak before this book. Still is. But every night I'd share something I'd re-learned with Terence, and by the end he decided I was ready to film an episode of Drunk History. Not so sure about that, but at least I've been refreshed on Dred Scott. And I have to say that while history is not typically my jam, I was wholly sucked in, even emotionally invested, by the time the battle actually started.
Questions for consideration:
- Discuss the commentary on the evolving nature of war. What kind of war is "better", if any?
- What does war do for the character of men who fight it? (Improve it? Reveal it? Worsen it?)
- How does a sense of exceptionalism fortify Lee for the barbarism of war? How does he see himself as a god-like figure?
- Consider the politics and morality behind the choice to invade or only fight defensively.
- How much does Shaara romanticize war in general? How much is the past used to calibrate expectations for the future?
- Discuss the personal "wars" that run parallel to the actual battle (inner and interpersonal conflicts, etc).
- What role does divine providence play?
- What is the significance of Fremont? Why the frivolity and shortsightedness? Comment on the larger relationship between southerners and the English.
- How prescient is Longstreet's discussion of modern warfare?
- Compare Lee's faith in god to his faith in the army.
- Comment on the role of morale, and the momentum of previous battle wins. How much do these factor into Gettysburg's outcome?
