“I’m not going to the War,” you said. / And, oh, oh, I was afeared for you. / Crossing Boss-Master is a horrible thing.”
This quote encapsulates Hero's initial resistance to participating in the war, driven by a profound fear of repercussions from his master. It also highlights the previous moment of intimacy between Hero and Penny, as Hero confides in her his reluctance to engage in the war. The fear of "Crossing Boss-Master" represents the very real dangers that come with defying authority, illustrating the high stakes involved. Hero's internal struggle underscores the conflict between personal integrity and societal expectations. The passage also reflects Hero’s evolving stance. Hero's eventual decision to go to the war indicates a shift, suggesting that his motives are more complex and perhaps driven by a sense of duty beyond the immediate fear of consequences. Thus, Penny confronts him about the change in mind and feels like he betrayed them bonding on the issue.
“Don’t beat me, Hero. / It won’t look right for you / The one who cut off my foot / To beat me down”
The statement reveals Homer’s awareness of the brutal irony and the complicated relationship between him and Hero. Homer’s plea reflects both his physical vulnerability and the emotional weight of being harmed by someone he once shared a connection. The mention of Hero cutting off his foot to prevent him from escaping underscores the harsh measures taken to maintain control. Hero's response emphasizes his stance on the necessity of following orders and the consequences of disobedience. His remark about Homer losing his foot because of his escape attempt illustrates the bitter reality of survival under oppressive conditions. The admission emphasizes the theme of coercion and the moral complexities involved in making difficult choices. This dialogue between Hero and Homer reflects a deeper sense of betrayal and unresolved tension. Thus, the passage highlights the ethical conflicts that arise from such actions.
“If you’d caught a General you’d get the moon and they’d cover you over with stars and you’d get a golden goblet from General Robert Edward Lee’s own house, a golden goblet for you and your wife both.”
This quote is rich with implications about power, recognition, and racial dynamics in the context of the Civil War. It comes from a dialogue between Smith and the Colonel, touching on the value and recognition associated with military rank and the racial undertones of these rewards. The hyperbolic promise of receiving "the moon" and being "covered with stars" underscores the immense value placed on capturing high-ranking officers in military service. Subsequently, the Colonel’s reference to receiving the golden goblet and having it hand-delivered by General Lee’s best “slave” reveals the racial prejudices underlying the societal structures of the time. This comment exposes the deep-seated racism that permeates even the acts of valor and reward. The Colonel’s hypothetical elevation to a General contrasts sharply with the reality of Smith’s position as a Captain. It underscores the disparities in how individuals are valued and rewarded based on their rank and race.
