The Effects Of War On Soldiers By Erich Maria Remarque s...

The effects of war on soldiers cannot be understated. Soldiers throughout history have suffered, both physically and mentally. Soldiers go through rigorous methods of preparation, making sure they are fit to fight all types of enemies. This preparation helps mentally, but it is often not enough. Many soldiers are not fit for the horrors of war, a scenario far more common during the days of military drafts. Young men are thrown into wars, and leave with everlasting mental scars. Paul Bà ¤umer, the center piece of Erich Maria Remarque’s All Quiet on the Western Front, is one of these young men. The novel follows Paul’s experience through World War I, as he gets a first-hand look at the front-line of war. Readers experience almost all aspects†¦show more content†¦Paul joins a few locals in a discussion about the war. He is hounded about specific war actions, given no option but to listen to varying opinions on the mistakes at the frontline. The locals dismiss Pau l’s opinion, deeming him unknowledgeable. Their departing statement shows little to no respect to a soldier fighting their war, saying â€Å" I hope we will soon hear something worth while from you† (Remarque 168). A statement that is dismissive and insulting, and one that is echoed throughout the town. Armchair generals often think they have all the answers during a war, when in fact they have no experience in the war. They are often insulting and offensive, as seen in Paul’s experience. These members of society are often blinded by their own opinions, not taking into consideration the mental strength it takes to fight for one’s country. Paul does not find a home when he goes on leave. He finds a foreign place that was once home. He is constantly reminded by the horrors of war, while he leasts expects it, both physically and mentally. This struggle is met by the unintentional disrespect shown by some of the locals. All this adds up to a mental struggle a soldiers should not have to deal with during a time of leave, and one that will come back to him during his return to the frontline. The events of Paul’s homecoming had a lasting effect on his emotional stability during the war. Before his leave, he shows little to no sign of emotionalShow MoreRelatedThe Guns Of August And All Quiet On The Western Front1633 Words   |  7 PagesFirst World War took the world by storm; no person could have imagined the horrors and detriments the â€Å"Great War† would cause. Over a span of four years, millions of soldiers and civilians died. Children lost their parents, and wives, their husbands. So unprecedented was this type of vicious warfare that the countries involved were unprepared for one of the worst wars in history. Two books, The Guns of August and All Quiet on the Western Front address and highlight major themes of World War I. 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