Chamberlain's reflections as he walks through camp show the changes in him as a person. He is no longer a detached man living on a lonely New England mountain, but a member of the human race. He is not the preacher his mother wanted. He is a father to his men, and he loves it. When he reads the letter from Meade threatening death to any man who doesn't fight, Chamberlain is angry. He realizes you don't threaten men at a time like this, you lead them by example. Leading them — it's his calling.
Chamberlain's reaction to the sight of thousands of soldiers as they approach Gettysburg is one of excitement. The lines of blue, with flags waving, is breathtaking to him. His own family relationships seem a bit strange. He doesn't think of his children much, although he does think of his wife in her scarlet robe turning to love him. She is the only thing missing here. Otherwise, this life in this army is everything he wants.
However, with regard to his wife, he comments, "Away from her you loved her more." It is a curious comment that implies some level of friction. She loves the South, their courtly manners, the heat and Spanish moss, and men's willingness to duel. She liked being the professor's wife and was outraged when he went to war. So there is the implication of some discord, and in fact they did almost divorce several years later. However, they loved each other very much and managed to work things out, remaining married until her death.
