The Conflict Between Soldiers and Authority

Traces the ongoing struggle between the soldiers and the military hierarchy, from Himmelstoss to the Kaiser, highlighting the absurdity of discipline.

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The Tyranny of Himmelstoss

The Tyranny of Himmelstoss The Abuse of Power Himmelstoss uses his position to torment the recruits. He makes them perform pointless drills, humiliates them, and invents cruel punishments. The soldiers resent his authority. The Resistance The soldiers resist passively and actively. They refuse to be broken. The thrashing of Himmelstoss is the climax of their resistance. The Lesson The conflict shows that authority in the army is often arbitrary and sadistic. The soldiers learn to distrust all authority figures.

The Kaiser's Review

The Kaiser's Review The Pointless Parade The company is inspected by the Kaiser. They spend days polishing equipment and drilling. The reflection is a waste of time and energy. The Discussion After the inspection, the men discuss the Kaiser's role. Tjaden wonders if the Kaiser has to go to the latrine like everyone else. The conversation reveals the soldiers' cynicism about the high command. The Question of Responsibility Kropp asks whether the war would have happened if the Kaiser had said No. The men conclude that the war is caused by the rulers, not the people. The authority of the monarchy is questioned.

The Conflict with the Home Front

The Conflict with the Home Front The Alienation Paul feels alienated from his family and the civilians. They do not understand the war. The father wants to hear stories, but Paul cannot talk about it. The Patriotic Professors Paul is accosted by a group of professors and civilians who talk about annexations and the spirit of the troops. They are completely out of touch with the reality of the front. The Major's Insult A major berates Paul for not saluting properly. Paul is outraged but cannot retaliate because his leave depends on his behavior. The authority of the rear echelon is a different kind of enemy.

During basic training

Before the summer of 1918

During Paul's leave