Antietam Film Analysis
Source: Rebecca Edwards, Eric Hinderaker, Robert O. Self, and James Henretta, America’s History 9th Edition (Boston: Bedford St. Martins, 2018), page number.
1. What is the Central message of this film?
2. Consider the effectiveness of the film in communicating its message. What are its strengths and weaknesses?
3. How do you think the filmmakers wanted the audience to respond?
4. Does the film appeal to reason or emotion? How does it make you feel?
5. Who directed this film?
6. Who are the main characters and what are their roles?
7. Through whose eyes is the story told?
8. Give a brief history of the 54th regiment.
9. What was the thinking about black soldiers during the Civil War?
10. Describe Col. Shaw. (His character, discipline, everything)
11. What are some of the goofs, if any, from the movie?
12. Who were Shaw’s parents and why are they relevant to the story?
13. Does the film make you care about Shaw and his men? If so, how?
Why did Robert E. Lee decide to invade the North? Why did George McClellan decided he had the ability to defeat Lee’s forces? Why was Lee’s forces saved from a crushing defeat? What were the results of the battle for President Lincoln? Why is this such a big deal in American History?
Why did Robert E. Lee decide to invade the North? Why did George McClellan decided he had the ability to defeat Lee’s forces? Why was Lee’s forces saved from a crushing defeat? What were the results of the battle for President Lincoln? Why is this such a big deal in American History?
