2) Many of the letters illustrate the disparity between the true experiences of soldiers and the official "news" being reported back home. Discuss letters which debunked myths or refuted misinformation. Did you find any of them eye-opening? Did any challenge your preconceived notions of what transpired?

3) Although a few soldiers express doubts about God's existence or benevolence, the vast majority seem to agree with Paul Curtis: "My faith in God has been steadily growing stronger all along. Without faith, I don't see how anyone could stand this." Discuss the role of faith in American soldiers' lives. Are you surprised their war experiences did not make more soldiers skeptical about their faith? Why or why not?

4) In which batch of letters did soldiers express the most confidence in the justness or worthiness of their cause? The most pride, optimism, or selflessness? Which wars' letters reflect the most shame, doubt or uncertainty on the part of its soldiers? Why?

5) What kinds of recurring themes, patterns, or values did you discern in the letters? Are they all uniquely "American"? What qualities or motifs might distinguish these letters from those written by soldiers from other countries?

6) Did any of the letters make you cry? Which did you find the most moving? The most unforgettable? Which soldier or other correspondent did you find the most eloquent? The most courageous? The wisest?