Courage is a characteristic that is something everyone wants to have. The ability to stand up to something, and be strong is something that can be very rewarding. It is the very thing that defines the manhood, or womanhood, of someone. In war, courage is something that is almost necessary. One has to stand his ground and fight, even in the face of poor odds. The Red Badge of Courage is the story of two days in a young man's search for his courage. Henry Flemming is the main character of The Red Badge of Courage. He is a young man with big dreams. He wants to join the Union Army in an attempt to become a hero. He sees war in a romantic light and as a chance to become the man that he wants to be. He is worried that when it comes down to it, he will run away instead of staying and fighting. Henry's mother is a hard-working, uneducated farm woman who is reluctant to see her son leave home and go south to do battle against the Confederate Army. She knows that war is not an exciting adventure filled with glory, heroism, and celebration. His two friends Jim Conklin and Tom Wilson, are fellow soldiers with whom he discusses his fears. Tom was very optimistic and encouraged the younger soldiers, however he realizes that he may be killed at any moment. As the battles progressed he fights bravely and well. Jim told valiant stories about war. He also would talk about his beloved children and his wishes for a clean bed and some pea soup. . Henry starts his journey at his company's campsite. He has spent a few bored months their drilling, training and talking with the other soldiers. This is where Henry contemplates his fears. He wishes for the battles to start soon so that he can prove himself. He finally gets his wish. The opposing armies meet in several skirmishes, and Henry gets a taste of war. Feeling that he is faced with imminent death during the battle, Henry, along with others in his company, throws down his rifle and flees during the second skirmish of the first day's battle.