What two common themes of war literature are reflected in …

English Questions
Short Answer
Step by Step Solution
English Questions

Which two common themes of war literature are reflected in this excerpt? If in some smothering dreams you too could pace Behind the wagon that we flung him in, And watch the white eyes writhing in his face, His hanging face, like a devil’s sick of sin; If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs, Obscene as cancer, bitter as the cud Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,√¢¬Ä¬î My friend, you would not tell with such high zest To children ardent for some desperate glory, The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mori. (Wilfred Owen, “Dulce Et Decorum Est”) -bitterness at the massive loss of life caused by war -anger at the ignorance of civilians and leaders at home -the innocence and ignorance of enlisted soldiers -anger at the government for lying to enlisted youth -the pain of those left at home waiting for the soldiers

Short Answer

The answer discusses the themes of bitterness and anger in war literature, highlighting the profound loss soldiers experience and the ignorance of civilians who romanticize war. It emphasizes the contrast between glorified ideals, such as the belief in dying for one’s country, and the harsh realities of suffering faced by soldiers, prompting a deeper reflection on the true nature of war.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understanding Bitterness

The theme of *bitterness* in war literature is highlighted through the profound sense of loss experienced on the battlefield. Writers often depict the horrific realities faced by soldiers, such as:

  • A soldier’s eyes filled with pain.
  • Facial expressions likened to that of a devil.
  • Severe injuries and loss of blood, illustrating the brutal consequences of war.

Step 2: Recognizing Anger at Ignorance

The theme of *anger* arises from the ignorance displayed by civilians and leaders back home. This anger is directed at the glorification of war and the misleading narratives told to children, which include:

  • The belief that dying for one’s country is honorable.
  • Romanticizing the war experience without acknowledging reality.
  • Failure to understand the true horrors soldiers endure facing violence and suffering.

Step 3: The Impact of Ideals and Language

The phrase *”Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori,”* translates to “It is sweet and honorable to die for your country.” This expression reflects the prevalent ideals that perpetuate the glorification of war. However, the literature challenges these notions by exposing the stark contrast between those ideals and the actual *suffering* experienced by soldiers. This contradiction aims to provoke thought and foster a deeper understanding of war’s harsh realities.

Related Concepts

Bitterness

Defining a profound sense of loss and pain experienced by soldiers in war literature

Anger

A strong emotional response directed at the ignorance of civilians and leaders regarding the realities of war

Ideals

Principles or beliefs, such as the glorification of dying for one’s country, that are often challenged by the harsh truths depicted in war literature.

Table Of Contents
  1. Which two common themes of war literature are reflected in this excerpt? If in some smothering dreams you too could pace Behind the wagon that we flung him in, And watch the white eyes writhing in his face, His hanging face, like a devil's sick of sin; If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs, Obscene as cancer, bitter as the cud Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,— My friend, you would not tell with such high zest To children ardent for some desperate glory, The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mori. (Wilfred Owen, "Dulce Et Decorum Est") -bitterness at the massive loss of life caused by war -anger at the ignorance of civilians and leaders at home -the innocence and ignorance of enlisted soldiers -anger at the government for lying to enlisted youth -the pain of those left at home waiting for the soldiers

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