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The Armies of the Night: An Epic Tale of Protests and the Rise of the New Left

Nathaniel Powell

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Published in The Armies Of The Night: History As A Novel The Novel As History

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Cover Of Norman Mailer's Novel 'The Armies Of The Night' The Armies Of The Night: History As A Novel The Novel As History

The Armies of the Night: History as a Novel the Novel as History

Historical Context

Norman Mailer's iconic novel, 'The Armies of the Night', offers a vivid and visceral account of the 1967 "March on the Pentagon" against the Vietnam War. It captures the spirit of the era, marked by widespread social unrest, political polarization, and the rise of the New Left.

The war in Vietnam, a major point of contention, divided American society. Anti-war protests escalated throughout the 1960s, culminating in the massive demonstration in Washington, D.C. on October 21-22, 1967.

Social Significance

'The Armies of the Night' serves as a poignant historical document, preserving the voices and experiences of those who protested against the Vietnam War. Mailer's meticulous reporting and evocative prose capture the intensity of the protest, the clash between demonstrators and authorities, and the societal upheaval it caused.

Beyond its historical value, the novel illuminates the social and political landscape of the time. It explores the motivations of the protesters, their idealism, their fears, and their aspirations for change. Mailer's work provides insights into the transformative era of the 1960s, highlighting the power of collective action and the determination of a generation to challenge authority.

Literary Techniques

Mailer's writing style in 'The Armies of the Night' is a mesmerizing blend of journalism and fiction. He employs a technique known as 'faction', where factual reporting is interwoven with fictionalized accounts, creating a unique literary experience.

The novel is structured around Mailer's own participation in the protest. As both an observer and a participant, he offers a deeply personal and immersive account that engages readers emotionally and intellectually. The prose is rhythmic and evocative, conveying the chaos, excitement, and tension of the event.

Characters and Perspectives

'The Armies of the Night' introduces a wide cast of characters, from anti-war activists to government officials. Mailer presents diverse perspectives, capturing the complexities of the conflict and the motivations of different individuals.

Among the notable figures are:

Norman Mailer himself, the narrator and a prominent writer
Abbie Hoffman, a leading figure in the counterculture movement
Jerry Rubin, a co-founder of the Yippie movement
David Dellinger, a pacifist and anti-war activist
William Westmoreland, the U.S. Army general and commander in Vietnam

Through these characters, Mailer explores the ideological divisions, personal conflicts, and human drama that unfolded during the protest.

Themes

'The Armies of the Night' delves into several key themes:

Protests and Social Change: The novel showcases the power and limitations of protests, highlighting their role in challenging authority and bringing about social change.
The Vietnam War: The war is a central focus, prompting ethical debates and exposing the divisions within American society.
Individualism vs. Collectivism: Mailer explores the tension between individual expression and the power of collective action.
The American Dream: The novel examines the ideals and disillusionment associated with the American Dream during a period of social upheaval.

These themes resonate with readers today, sparking discussions about the role of activism, the impact of war, and the complexities of human nature.

Critical Reception and Legacy

'The Armies of the Night' received critical acclaim upon its publication. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Nonfiction in 1969 and has since become a classic work of American literature.

The novel has been praised for its vivid prose, its historical significance, and its ability to capture the spirit of a tumultuous era. It remains an influential work, inspiring new generations of readers to engage with the complexities of protest, war, and social justice.

Norman Mailer's 'The Armies of the Night' is a masterful work that chronicles a pivotal moment in American history. Through its immersive account of the March on the Pentagon, the novel offers a profound reflection on the power of protest, the complexities of war, and the enduring struggles for social change. As a literary masterpiece and a historical document, 'The Armies of the Night' continues to captivate and inspire readers worldwide.

The Armies of the Night: History as a Novel, the Novel as History

by Norman Mailer

4.3 out of 5