
"Deliver Us from This Cruel War"
by Joseph J. Hoyle
"The Civil War Letters of Lieutenant Joseph J. Hoyle, 55th North Carolina Infantry"
Popularity
4.77 / 5
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"Deliver Us from This Cruel War" by Joseph J. Hoyle
Details
War:
American Civil War
Perspective:
Infantry
Military Unit:
US Army
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
North America
Page Count:
244
Published Date:
2010
ISBN13:
9780786456048
Description
Brief Summary
"Deliver Us from This Cruel War" by Joseph J. Hoyle offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a Confederate soldier during the American Civil War. Comprising personal letters written by Hoyle, who served as a lieutenant in the 55th Regiment North Carolina Troops, the book captures his experiences and sentiments during his time in the Confederate Army from May 1862 until his death in September 1864. These correspondences give readers a firsthand account of both the mundane and the dramatic aspects of military life, while the editor's insights provide context to the events described in Hoyle's writings.
Main Themes and Topics
The central themes of "Deliver Us from This Cruel War" include the struggles and hardships of a soldier's life during the Civil War, the camaraderie and morale among troops, and the dichotomy of duty versus personal belief. Hoyle's letters reflect a soldier's perspective on the battlefield's grim realities, highlighting the conflict's toll on both the individual and collective levels. His evolution from a private to a lieutenant offers insights into leadership and responsibility amid the chaos of war. Furthermore, Hoyle's writings frequently touch upon the futility and despair accompanying the Confederate soldiers as the war progressed, especially during pivotal moments like the Battle of Gettysburg.
Writing Style and Tone
Joseph J. Hoyle's writing is characterized by its raw honesty and vivid imagery, which vividly convey his thoughts and emotions throughout the war. The personal nature of the letters allows for a direct and unfiltered portrayal of a soldier's life, with a tone that ranges from hopeful to somber. His articulate expressions as a former schoolteacher add depth and clarity to his observations, making the letters compelling both as historical documents and personal narratives. Additionally, the editor's contributions effectively bridge each set of letters, providing historical and tactical context without overshadowing Hoyle's original voice.
Criticism
While "Deliver Us from This Cruel War" offers valuable insights into a soldier's life during the Civil War, some readers may find the first-person narrative style limiting in terms of broader strategic or political perspectives. The focus on personal letters means the book primarily provides details on regimental and individual experiences, which might not satisfy those seeking comprehensive military analysis or accounts from multiple viewpoints. However, for readers interested in personal narratives and the human aspect of warfare, this limitation is likely outweighed by the book's intimate details.