What metaphors are used in Sharpe's Waterloo: Richard Sharpe and the Waterloo Campaign by Bernard Cornwell?

Much of the narrative is really a metaphor for bravery and courage. Examples abound on all sides and officers are expected to show unflinching bravery in the field, especially when in sight of the men they are leading. Thus the admonition for British officers to always act nonchalantly when they have to move under fire and the deliberate use of small talk to cover up their fear and apprehension just before an attack.