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All Quiet on the Western Front - Term Papers

All Quiet on the Western Front

Paul Bäumer, the narrator and protagonist in All Quiet on the Western Front, is a character who develops extensively within the course of the novel. As a young man, he is persuaded to join the German Army during World War I. This three year ordeal is marked by Paul's short, but tragic trek into adulthood as he learns to cope with the trials and tribulations of war. In the wake of a struggle which claims millions, Paul loses his precious innocence as he is further isolated from society and engulfed by bloodshed. Paul's evolution throughout the novel is a result of his having to adapt in order to survive.

Paul's experiences in combat shatter his former misconceptions of war; consequently, ...

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situation. "They are strong and our desire is strong-but they are unattainable, and we know it"(121). Paul realizes that the soldiers former lives are all but distant memories. His maturing personality gives him the insight to see past the facade of war and expose it for what it truly is.

Paul loses his innocence and childhood during the war; as a result, he becomes a man. When Paul and his companions encounter some French women, they exchange food for sexual intercourse. "We unwrap our parcels and hand them over to the women. Their eyes shine, it is obvious they are hungry"(148). Through this transaction, Paul uses the women as an outlet for his sexual urges. Shortly after this rendezvous, Paul receives a leave of absence; however, he finds it difficult to leave the war behind. "Speak to me - take me up - take me, Life of my Youth - you who are care-free, beautiful - receive me again - "(172). Paul can no longer conjure up the feelings of happiness which accompanied his ...

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All Quiet on the Western Front. (2011, May 1). Retrieved November 23, 2024, from http://www.essayworld.com/essays/All-Quiet-on-the-Western-Front/98690

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PAPER DETAILS

Added: 5/1/2011 02:27:35 PM
Submitted By: charger24
Category: English
Type: Premium Paper
Words: 681
Pages: 3

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