We Fought at Gettysburg

Main Themes and Topics

We Fought at Gettysburg by Carolyn Ivanoff delves deeply into the personal accounts of the soldiers from the 17th Connecticut Regiment during the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War. The book focuses on themes of courage, resilience, and the relentless human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds. The narrative is largely constructed through first-person testimonies, giving readers a vivid and authentic look into the emotional and physical toll that war takes on individuals. The book sheds light on the camaraderie among soldiers and their collective experiences of loss, fear, and survival during one of the most critical campaigns of the war.

Writing Style and Tone

Carolyn Ivanoff’s writing style in We Fought at Gettysburg is both detailed and evocative, drawing heavily on the firsthand accounts compiled by William H. Warren. The tone of the book is respectfully somber, reflecting the gravity of the events it describes. Ivanoff allows the words of the soldiers themselves to take center stage, providing historical context and clarification where necessary but primarily serving as a curator of these compelling narratives. Her meticulous attention to authenticity and her ability to paint vivid images through descriptive language enhance the reader's immersion in the historical period and the personal stories being told.

Brief Summary

We Fought at Gettysburg chronicles the experiences of the 17th Connecticut Regiment during the Gettysburg Campaign in June and July of 1863. The narrative is a compilation of firsthand accounts from soldiers who lived through the battle. These accounts, compiled by William H. Warren and published by Carolyn Ivanoff, offer unique insights into the day-to-day realities and struggles faced by the regiment. The book also features numerous photographs and maps, providing valuable visual context to the personal stories and enriching the historical narrative for readers. The accounts are both personal and poignant, capturing the stark realities of war and the human experiences within it.