Point of View

The book is written in the first person from a limited point of view. The perspectives vary depending on the speaker at the moment. Chapters one and seven are both presented from the perspective of Palmer Metcalf. This perspective is acceptable because it allows the reader learns about the various aspects of military life and the battle of Shiloh through the eyes of different men. The characters include a full range of soldiers, including those on both sides of the conflict. The Confederate Lieutenant Palmer Metcalf begins with the first chapter. Palmer presents his perceptions of life from the view of a minor Confederate officer who has first-hand knowledge of all the most important officers. Chapter two is from the perspective of Captain Walter Fountain who is writing a letter home when the battle commences. He is one of the first casualties. Chapter three is from...