The Conflict with Himmelstoss

Traces the abusive relationship between the postman-turned-corporal Himmelstoss and the soldiers, from his tyranny in basic training to his humiliation at the front.

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Himmelstoss the Tyrant

Himmelstoss the Tyrant The Terror of Klosterberg Corporal Himmelstoss, a postman in civilian life, is the strictest disciplinarian in the camp. He takes particular pleasure in tormenting Paul, Kropp, Tjaden, and Westhus. He makes them remake beds, scrub floors with toothbrushes, and stand at attention in the cold for hours. The Last Straw The climax comes when Paul and Kropp accidentally dump a latrine bucket over Himmelstoss's legs. They threaten to report him, and his authority is undermined. He tries to retaliate with drill, but they resist. The Seed of Revenge The soldiers swear to get even with Himmelstoss when they are sent to the front. The thrashing they plan becomes a symbol of their defiance against petty authority.

The Thrashing of Himmelstoss

The Thrashing of Himmelstoss The Plan On the night before they depart for the front, Paul, Kropp, Tjaden, and Westhus wait for Himmelstoss on a dark road. They throw a blanket over his head and beat him with a whip. Haie Westhus delivers the heaviest blows. The Execution The beating is described with grim satisfaction. Himmelstoss is left on the ground, his trousers down, his pride shattered. The soldiers disappear into the night, their revenge complete. The Aftermath Himmelstoss never discovers who attacked him. The thrashing gives the soldiers a sense of closure. They leave for the front with a sense of victory over the system.

Himmelstoss at the Front

Himmelstoss at the Front The Arrogance Deflated Himmelstoss arrives at the front, expecting to domineer as before. But the soldiers respond with open hostility. Tjaden insults him, and Kropp reminds him that the front is not a parade ground. Himmelstoss is humiliated before the entire company. The Cowardice During an attack, Paul finds Himmelstoss hiding in a dugout, pretending to be wounded. Paul drags him out and forces him to join the assault. Himmelstoss obeys only when an officer appears. The Transformation After the attack, Himmelstoss is a changed man. He seeks to make amends, offering sugar and butter to the men. He even helps carry the wounded Haie. The conflict is resolved, but Himmelstoss is never fully trusted.

During basic training at the barracks

The night before they leave for the front

When Himmelstoss is sent to the front as a punishment