Killer Angels by Michael Shaara

Like any lover of history, I feel a good historical fiction is like dessert. Killer Angels by Michael Shaara is just such a book. He describes the thoughts and feelings of those on both sides of Gettysburg in such an intimate way, you really do get to know the actors. I believe this is such a valuable way to learn history.

While the author admits to fictionalizing events, he uses the basic factual outline to guide his story. Telling the story in excruciating detail as he proceeds day by day really brings the horror of the battle home.

I would say that Shaara makes the argument that war is hell, yet because of our human nature, unavoidable. In particular regards to the Civil War, there seems to be a confusion among the soldiers about what the war is actually about, although the union officials make it clear that the war IS about slavery. The people seem to be going through motions inexorably cast upon them. Everyone feels trapped and forced to respond. Robert E. Lee is treated with great deference and understanding. He is a very sympathetic participant forced to pay for the sins of those he happens to live with. He is unfailingly loyal to his people, if not the cause of slavery. As such, he is a deeply sympathetic character, and yet, through the voice and words of General Longstreet, we get a sense that the author is saying that it is all unnecessary. And at the same time unavoidable.

This tragic novel ends, as is fitting, with more tragedy. There is no happy ending to the Civil War.