Kantorek's Humiliation

The reversal of power between the schoolmaster Kantorek and his former student Mittelstaedt, who becomes his superior and humiliates him.

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The Schoolmaster Called Up

The Schoolmaster Called Up The News Paul learns that Kantorek has been called up as a territorial. Mittelstaedt, a former student, is now a corporal and in charge of Kantorek's company. The Revenge Mittelstaedt humiliates Kantorek, forcing him to wear an ill-fitting uniform and perform exhausting drills. He quotes Kantorek's own words back at him. The Symbol The humiliation of Kantorek is a symbolic victory for the soldiers. The authority figures who sent them to war are now subject to the same abuse.

The Breakdown of Respect

The Breakdown of Respect The Lost Authority Kantorek is a pathetic figure in his uniform. The respect he once commanded is gone. Paul sees him as a ridiculous old man, not a teacher. The Lesson The reversal shows that the war has destroyed all old hierarchies. The schoolmaster's authority was based on a system that has collapsed. The Aftermath Mittelstaedt intends to continue the torment. Kantorek cannot complain because the officers find the situation amusing. The war has turned the world upside down.

During Paul's leave, when he visits Mittelstaedt

During the same visit