An Episode of War

One of the most striking aspects of “An Episode of War” is its brevity. Using specific examples from the story, discuss the following questions: What is gained from using this short form? What is lost? What makes this form suitable for this subject matter?

Compare the opening lines of “An Episode of War” with the final few lines of the story. How does Crane approach each of these important parts of the story? How is the tone similar and/or different? What effect does this create in each instance, and why might Crane wish to evoke these effects?

Find, describe, and analyze a single image from the story that you think is important. What makes this image stand out to you? How does this image fit in with the story as a whole? What symbol(s) or theme(s) does it touch on? How would the story be altered if it were to be removed?