Robert E. Lee's Softer Side
Thomas Forehand, Thomas Forehand JrOverview
Though at times he was known to have a "fierce and violent temper," Lee nonetheless had a heart that editor Thomas Forehand contests was "as soft as velvet." Through letters, diary excerpts, and touching stories, Forehand demonstrates that in his personal life Lee was indeed a peacemaker, full of a surprisingly sensitive and gentle nature that his family and others recorded. Chapters on chivalry, family, peace, slaves, and enemies show Lee's conscientious and compassionate side in various situations.Synopsis
Though at times he was a "bear" and was known to have a "fierce and violent temper", Lee nonetheless had a heart that author Thomas J. Forehand contests was "as soft as velvet". Through letters, diary excerpts, and touching stories, Forehand demonstrates in this collection of antecdotes and quotes displaying Lee's tender side that Lee was indeed a peacemaker in his personal life, full of compassion and a gentle nature that his family and others who encountered him thankfully recorded. One cadet's mother wrote in her diary that Lee was "very human, kind, and calm", and Lee's letters home to his wife and children about various animals, from the kitten he wishes to adopt, to his son's account of his father's beloved dog "Spec" and the account of Lee's pet hen who was in attendance at Gettysburg, illuminate the man behind the marble.