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All Quiet On The Western Front Character Analysis

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During World War I, "All Quiet on the Western Front" depicts the brutal experiences of young German soldiers, with the film centering on Paul Baumer, who enlists in the army with his classmates due to patriotic speeches given by their teacher. Yet, once on the front lines, they face the true horrors of war, constantly surrounded by danger and the deaths of their fellow soldiers. The film exhibits the emotional toll that war characterizes upon soldiers, showing the treacherous conditions in which they live, with rats and disease-ridden trenches, and the inhumanity of war. The mercilessness of battle and the loss of fellow soldiers start to weigh down on the young troops, making them contemplate why they're even fighting. The movie portrays how these soldiers struggle to retain their humanity amid war. Paul and his mates are compelled to act against their moral principles, including taking human lives, which causes them to question their own identity. They're stripped of their unique personalities and become parts of the war machine. …show more content…

His youth is marked by the cruelty he witnesses during World War I and the atrocities he confronts as a soldier. Despite these traumatic experiences, Paul maintains his inner strength and empathy for his comrades, creating enduring relationships with them throughout the movie. Paul, a relatable and likable character, faces an internal battle against the dehumanizing effects of war and a search for purpose in a pointless struggle. This character arc presents an emotional tale that is a strong reminder of the terrible toll war takes on youth. Overall, Paul is a well written character that adds depth and emotion to the movie. My favorite moment of his is when he is forced to kill an enemy soldier but still treats him with respect and shows empathy and sadness toward him in his last moments showing that even in such a horrific war, he is still

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