Step-by-step explanation:
"The Horseman in the Sky" is a short story written by Ambrose Bierce, which revolves around the themes of duty, loyalty, and sacrifice. The protagonist of the story is Carter Druse, a young soldier from the Union army who finds himself in a moral dilemma when he sees his own father, a Confederate soldier, on the other side of the battlefield. Carter is torn between his love for his country and his loyalty to his family, leading to a conflict that ultimately results in a tragic outcome.
At the beginning of the story, Carter is portrayed as a young soldier who is enthusiastic about serving his country and fighting for the Union army. He is a principled and disciplined soldier who is committed to his duty, which is reflected in his willingness to follow orders even if it means risking his life. However, as the story progresses, Carter's character undergoes a transformation as he realizes that the war has personal implications for him. When he sees his father on the other side of the battlefield, he is forced to confront the conflict between his duty and his loyalty to his family.
Carter's character is defined by his sense of duty and loyalty, which leads to his ultimate sacrifice. His decision to shoot his father in order to fulfill his duty as a soldier is a tragic example of the conflict between loyalty and duty. Carter's sacrifice highlights the harsh realities of war and the sacrifices that soldiers have to make in order to serve their country. Overall, Carter's character is a complex portrayal of the psychological impact of war and the moral dilemmas that soldiers face.