“The Cyclical Horror of War: A Study of All Quiet on the Western Front”

Abstract

Erich Remarque’s novel All Quiet on the Western Front has long been considered as a historically-valuable representation of World War I, particularly the new horrors that came with the advent of modern warfare. In this 100^th anniversary period of the war, we recognize that war is still rampant throughout the world, and we have proven what Remarque said a century ago: that the devastation of war can never be undone. Yet, the novel also presents an important view of how carnage affects the soldier himself. With more and more people being touched by war, it is now more important than ever to understand what individuals like Paul Bäumer feel during battle. This study investigates Paul’s experience with his fellow soldiers, the disintegration of his familial relationships, and finally his death to illustrate the effacement of the men who make up the war effort.