The Fighting Ground

Why are German soldiers fighting in the American Revolution? What is their reputation among Americans, and why?

After reloading his musket, Jonathan looks up to find himself alone on a battlefield as several Hessians charge him with bayonets, and he flees into the forest. Explain why he thinks he’s a coward for this. Do you think he’s a coward? Why or why not?

Why did the three Hessian soldiers capture Jonathan? Why did they hold onto him after they were left behind by their retreating army unit?

Bewildered, exhausted, and frightened, Jonathan tries to be closer to his captors. Why does he do this? Is it a wise or foolish thing to do?

Jonathan wants both to protect and to shoot his captors. Why does he feel this conflict? How would the narrative have changed if he had decided to shoot them?

Suggest two reasons why the Corporal is a great warrior and two reasons why he might sometimes be an overzealous one.

Jonathan wants to be a good American soldier, yet he also wants to help the Hessians, and this makes him confused about his loyalties. Explain how those two motives—loyalty to the homeland and compassion for the enemy—might not be in conflict. How could he be a soldier and uphold both of these motives?

Though he promised to return the tavern owner’s musket, Jonathan instead deliberately breaks it and leaves it behind. What causes him to do this?