Armies of the Night

Definition

Armies of the Night is a novel by Norman Mailer, published in 1968, that blends fact and fiction to chronicle the 1967 anti-Vietnam War march on the Pentagon. The book is considered a significant work in the genre of literary journalism, as it captures both the chaos of the protest and the inner thoughts of the author, illustrating the intersection of personal experience and political activism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The title 'Armies of the Night' refers to the collective spirit and determination of the anti-war protesters who gathered to challenge U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
2. Mailer uses a unique narrative style in the book, alternating between third-person and first-person perspectives, which allows readers to engage deeply with both the events and his internal struggles.
3. The book is notable for its vivid descriptions of the atmosphere surrounding the protest, portraying a sense of urgency and tension that characterized the anti-war movement during the late 1960s.
4. Mailer himself participated in the protest, adding an autobiographical element to the narrative, which enhances its authenticity as a work of literary journalism.
5. Armies of the Night won the Pulitzer Prize for Nonfiction in 1969, solidifying Mailer's reputation as a leading figure in American literature and journalism.

Review Questions

• How does Norman Mailer's narrative style in 'Armies of the Night' enhance the reader's understanding of both personal experience and collective activism?
  • Norman Mailer's narrative style in 'Armies of the Night' plays a crucial role in conveying the complexity of personal experience intertwined with collective activism. By alternating between third-person observations and his own first-person reflections, Mailer creates an immersive reading experience that draws readers into both the chaotic environment of the protest and his inner thoughts. This unique blend allows readers to understand not only what happened during the anti-war march but also how it affected individuals emotionally and psychologically.
• Discuss how 'Armies of the Night' serves as an example of literary journalism and its impact on public perception of the Vietnam War protests.
  • 'Armies of the Night' exemplifies literary journalism by combining factual reporting with narrative techniques and introspective commentary. Mailer's portrayal of the anti-Vietnam War protests goes beyond mere documentation; it captures the emotional weight and ethical dilemmas faced by participants. This blending of genres helped shape public perception by making complex political issues more relatable and human, ultimately influencing how people viewed both the protests and their own roles in societal change.
• Evaluate how 'Armies of the Night' reflects broader social changes during the 1960s counterculture movement, especially regarding anti-war sentiment.
  • 'Armies of the Night' reflects broader social changes during the 1960s counterculture movement by illustrating a pivotal moment when ordinary citizens mobilized against government actions they perceived as unjust. The book not only documents a specific event but also symbolizes a generation's struggle for identity and moral clarity amidst societal upheaval. As Mailer articulates his thoughts alongside those of fellow protesters, he captures the essence of an era marked by resistance to authority, questioning traditional values, and advocating for peace, demonstrating how these sentiments resonated deeply with many Americans during this transformative time.

Related terms

Literary Journalism: A style of writing that combines factual reporting with narrative techniques and personal reflections, often blurring the line between journalism and fiction.

Counterculture: A social movement that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by a rejection of mainstream values and a push for civil rights, environmental awareness, and anti-war sentiments.

Protest Literature: A genre of literature that seeks to raise awareness about social or political issues and inspire action or change through powerful narratives.