Albert Kropp's Amputation

The story of Albert Kropp, the clearest thinker among them, who loses his leg and must face a life as a cripple.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Thinker

The Thinker The Intellectual Albert Kropp is the most intelligent of the group, a lance-corporal who thinks critically about the war. He questions the causes of the war and the justice of the conflict. The Friend He is Paul's closest friend. They share everything, from cigarettes to dreams. Kropp's sharp mind provides a contrast to the brute reality of the front. The Survival Kropp survives many battles, serving as a steady presence. His humor and cynicism help the others cope.

The Wound and Amputation

The Wound and Amputation The Shelling Kropp is wounded in the knee by a shell fragment. He and Paul drag each other to safety. They are evacuated together to the Catholic hospital. The Operation Despite Paul's efforts to keep them together, Kropp's leg is amputated. He is despondent, threatening to shoot himself. He feels his life is over. The Struggle Kropp's stump heals, but he is changed. He is silent and withdrawn. The once-vibrant thinker is now a shadow of himself. The amputation has destroyed his will.

The Parting

The Parting The Last Meeting Paul receives convalescent leave and must leave Kropp behind. Kropp is still in the hospital, preparing for an artificial limb. They say goodbye, knowing they may never see each other again. The Hope Paul tries to encourage Kropp, but Kropp is resigned to his fate. The war has taken his leg and his spirit. The Memory Paul leaves with a heavy heart. Kropp's fate is a reminder of the physical and psychological toll of the war.

Throughout the first half of the novel

During the retreat from the village

When Paul leaves the hospital for convalescent leave