Cold Mountain Book Report

Charles Frazier’s novel, “Cold Mountain” can be considered a romance set against the backdrop of the Civil War.  Utilizing the historical content of the Civil War era, his novel becomes an exploration of social change and class transformation wrought from this national upheaval of colonial life, with the love story as simply a byproduct.  The main characters, Inman and Ada, reflect this social transformation and offer a portrait of life forever changed by the catalyst of war.

Although “Cold Mountain” is a fictional account of the Civil War, there is much historical content worthy of examination that a history term paper could be written on it.  Frazier adequately encompasses social distinction before and after through the means of flashbacks that describe a completely different world prior to the coming of the war.  The book opens with Inman recuperating from a wound suffered during battle.  He frequently lapses into remembrances, which offer the reader a view of society that once was and is now gone forever.  The same takes place with Ada, the daughter of a minister whose social class has become completely altered due to the war.

Prior to the Civil War, the South was based on a strong sense of class distinction.  Traditions and familial heritage played an important role in southern society.  Many of the more populated cities became institutions of social exchange and rule.  The closer to the nation’s capital, the more influential society seemed to become. 

Book Reports and Book Reviews on Cold Mountain from Paper Masters

A Cold Mountain book report typically begins by identifying the author, title of book and publishing details in the introduction. Then a student should continue with the book report by stating the thesis or controlling idea of Cold Mountain. Typically, in a book report, the first paragraph is the summary of events that develop the thesis of Cold Mountain. In the body of the report, a student should include the key characters and concepts of at least three characters or personalities. Finally, end with a conclusion of at least 1/2 page with final thoughts about the book and an interesting ending.