The themes of The Red Badge of Courage : A.Courage:Henry Flaming defines it, desires it, and finally achieves it. At last, he finds that courage is about a soldier's regard for his reputation. B.Manhood:Throughout the novel, Henry struggles to preserve his manhood. In the end, Henry learns that the measure of one's manhood lies in the complex ways in which one settles one's mistakes and responsibilities. C.The universe's disregard for human life: Henry realizes that the natural world goes on regardless of the manner in which men live and die. D.The dehumanizing effect of war:War is seen as a force moving men ruthlessly and blindly.The young soldier is moved about with no free will, serving as an instrument of blind fate. Men fighting are so many helpless animals.