One Sentence Summary
‘The Killer Angels’ by Michael Shaara is a thought-provoking and historically accurate novel that follows the events of the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War.
Book Genre
Historical Fiction.
Main Topic of the Book
The Battle of Gettysburg and the events leading up to it.
Key Ideas
- War is not just about strategy and tactics, but also about the people who fight it and the decisions they make.
- The Civil War was a complex and devastating conflict that tore apart the nation and its people.
- Leadership, courage, and sacrifice are essential qualities that can impact the outcome of a war.
- The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War and a pivotal moment in American history.
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary
The novel is divided into four parts, with each part focusing on a specific day of the Battle of Gettysburg:
- The first part, ‘Wednesday, June 30, 1863’, sets the stage for the battle as the Confederate Army, led by General Robert E. Lee, marches towards Pennsylvania.
- ‘Thursday, July 1, 1863’ follows the initial skirmishes between the Union and Confederate forces, led by Generals John Buford and Harry Heth respectively.
- ‘Friday, July 2, 1863’ portrays the intense and bloody fighting that takes place as both sides struggle for control of the high ground at Little Round Top and Devil’s Den.
- In the final part, ‘Saturday, July 3, 1863’, Lee orders an ill-fated charge towards the Union’s center at Cemetery Ridge, resulting in a devastating defeat for the Confederates.
Key Takeaways
- Although war is often depicted in terms of strategy and battle plans, ‘The Killer Angels’ reminds us of the human element involved and the impact of personal decisions on the outcome of a conflict.
- The novel sheds further light on the devastating effects of the Civil War and the role of leaders and soldiers in shaping history.
- The Battle of Gettysburg is remembered as a turning point in the Civil War and a crucial moment in American history.
Author’s Background and Qualifications
Michael Shaara was an American author and professor who served in the Korean War and later taught creative writing at Florida State University. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1975 for ‘The Killer Angels’, and his son Jeff Shaara continued the series with ‘Gods and Generals’ and ‘The Last Full Measure’.
Target Audience
‘The Killer Angels’ is suitable for readers interested in the American Civil War, military history, and those who enjoy thought-provoking literary fiction. The book also appeals to a wider audience interested in exploring the human side of war and its impact on individuals and society.
Publisher and First Publication Date
‘The Killer Angels’ was first published by Ballantine Books in 1974.