Comeradeship In All Quiet On The Western Front

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In Erich Maria Remarque's novel, All Quiet on the Western Front, one of the central themes is the theme of comradeship. This theme is brought out throughout the novel in scenes when the men are resting and when they are in battle. The camaraderie of their escapades during times of rest, Paul's experience when he is alone in the trench, and the support the group offers each other during battle all emphasize the importance of comradeship in the lives of Paul and his fellow soldiers. First, at times of rest, the group enjoys friendly amusement in which Remarque highlights the theme of comradeship. For example, in Chapter Five, Paul and Kat capture a goose. As Kat is roasting the goose, Paul remarks "We don't talk much, but I believe we have a more complete communion with one another than even lovers have. We are two men, two minute sparks of life; outside is the night and the circle of death," (94). As Paul watches Kat roasting the goose and hears his voice, this moment of friendship and sharing brings peace and reassurance to Paul. Another escapade demonstrating camaraderie occurs when Albert, Paul, and Leer swim naked across a river to go to the house of three French girls. As Paul tells it, they "are glowing and full of a lust for adventure"(146). Remarque has Paul narrate this particular exploit with humor and comedy, again highlighting the theme of comradeship present during the adventure. Afterwards, Paul and his friends joke around and exaggerate their experience. Remarque has the three friends showing off to the others, demonstrating the spirit of friendship between them. Through this camaraderie, Remarque suggests that even in times of war, the soldiers are able to amuse themselves in fun and friendship. In yet another occurrence during peace time, Remarque brings forth the theme of comradeship with Paul and his friends in the barrack
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