First World War fiction, also known as WWI fiction, is a literary genre that explores the tumultuous events of the First World War (1914-1918). This genre offers readers a diverse and engaging way to learn about this significant historical conflict by drawing inspiration from real-life experiences and events.
The First World War was ignited by the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, the archduke of Austria-Hungary, by a Serbian nationalist in 1914. This resulted in Austria-Hungary declaring war on Serbia, and soon, several other countries including Germany, the Ottoman Empire, Britain, France, Russia, and Belgium were involved in the conflict.
First World War fiction encompasses various literary forms, such as books, poems, fictional diary entries, and letters. These works are considered historical fiction as they are based on factual events but also contain elements of imagination. They often depict the grim realities of life during the war and may feature fictional characters inspired by real individuals.
In English literature, many authors and poets drew upon their first-hand experiences in the war to create works of fiction. These pieces often contrast the glorification of war with the brutal and devastating reality that soldiers faced. They shed light on the horrors of battle and the personal struggles of those involved, as well as the long-term effects on their health and relationships.
Also known as "the Great War," the First World War was the first major conflict on a global scale, involving multiple countries. It also marked the first use of modern weaponry, and the resulting destruction was unprecedented in Europe. Trenches became a necessary defense against the constant barrage of artillery during battles.
Some literature produced during this time was patriotic, such as English poet Rupert Brooke's poem "The Soldier" (1915). In this work, Brooke envisions an "English heaven" that he will go to after his death, as a result of his service in the Royal Navy. This idealistic portrayal reflects the initial expectations of glory and heroism held by many young soldiers at the start of the war, which often differed from the critical views expressed in literature towards the end of the war or in its aftermath.
Trench warfare played a crucial role in the First World War, providing soldiers with protection against enemy artillery during prolonged battles. This defensive tactic is depicted in many works of First World War fiction and is considered a defining aspect of this historic conflict.
First World War poetry is a subgenre of war poetry that specifically discusses the events of the First World War. These poems were often written by soldiers who had served in the war and cover themes such as patriotism, loyalty, courage, comradeship, death, and sacrifice. They offer a raw and honest portrayal of the brutal realities of war, dispelling any illusions of glory or heroism.
Some of the most renowned writers of First World War fiction include:
The First World War (1914-1918) left a profound impact on society, and its effects can also be seen in the literature of the time. English writers such as Richard Aldington and Virginia Woolf were among those who explored the themes of war, trauma, and societal changes in their works. In this article, we will delve into the world of First World War fiction and its portrayal of the realities of war and its aftermath.
Richard Aldington (1892-1962) was a renowned English writer, best known for his novel "Death of a Hero" (1929). The novel tells the story of George Winterbourne, a young man who joins the British army at the start of WWI.
After the horrors of World War I, many soldiers struggled to readjust to civilian life, leaving lasting effects on their personal relationships. This struggle is reflected in influential English literature of the time, such as Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway" (1925). Woolf's novel delves into post-war society and the character of Septimus Smith, a war veteran suffering from shell shock (now known as post-traumatic stress disorder - PTSD). Smith's mental struggles and eventual suicide serve as a powerful commentary on the impact of war on soldiers long after they return home.
A common theme in First World War fiction is the portrayal of shell shock, now known as PTSD. This disorder was often experienced by soldiers who endured prolonged exposure to the horrors of war. Symptoms included anxiety, memory loss, and difficulty sleeping and communicating.
Exploring Prominent First World War Fiction
Let's take a closer look at some well-known examples of First World War fiction in English literature.
"Parade's End" (1950) is a collection of four novels by British author Ford Madox Ford. Spanning during, before, and after WWI, the series follows the story of Christopher Tietjens, a wealthy man and gentleman officer. Through Tietjens' experiences, the novel also comments on social attitudes of the time, particularly through his relationships with his unfaithful wife Sylvia and suffragist lover Valentine. The novel exposes the difficulties of returning to civilian life after war and its effects on relationships.
Rebecca West's novel "The Return of the Soldier" (1918) explores the impact of shell shock on Captain Chris, a soldier struggling with amnesia and a distorted perception of time after his return from WWI. Through the eyes of his cousin Jenny, the reader witnesses how his condition affects his relationships with his wife, his cousin, and his former lover. The novel sheds light on the realities of shell shock and the efforts to help soldiers cope with its traumatic effects.
First World War Fiction Through Poetry
Beyond novels, poetry was also a popular form of expression for First World War fiction. Notable examples by English poets include:
In conclusion, the First World War had a significant impact on literature, as evidenced by the works of influential English writers like Richard Aldington and Virginia Woolf. Through their novels and poetry, we gain insight into war's realities and its lasting effects on individuals and society.
Siegfried Sassoon, a renowned English poet, was known for his anti-war sentiments during World War I. In his poem, 'The Poet As Hero' (1916), Sassoon expresses his disillusionment with the glorification of war and its harsh realities. He ridicules and detests war, denouncing his previous naive admiration for it, now replaced with a bitter outcry.
The poem alludes to Sassoon's pursuit of the legendary Holy Grail, a symbol of an unattainable goal. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the idealized idea of war, now seen as a myth. He no longer wants to mirror the legendary knight Galahad, who sought the Holy Grail, as his once sweet ecstasies have transformed into an ugly cry when confronted with war's truth.
The reference to the Holy Grail also holds significance in Christianity as the cup that Jesus' disciples drank his blood from, symbolizing forgiveness for their sins. Sassoon believes his current outcries against war bring him absolution as he finds forgiveness for his past bloodlust and hatred. He has outgrown his childish ideals and no longer seeks to be a 'hero' through war. Instead, he feels vengeful for his friends who lost their lives in the war, burning with a desire to smite their wrongs.
Wilfred Owen, a notable English poet and soldier, was a witness to the brutalities of war and expressed them in his famous poem 'Dulce et Decorum Est' (1920). The title of the poem is a reference to a phrase by the Roman poet Horace, 'Dulce et decorum est/ Pro patria mori', meaning 'It is sweet and fitting to die for one's country'. However, Owen's depiction of the soldiers' experiences is far from sweet and fitting.
Owen vividly describes the soldiers as old beggars, haggard and exhausted, 'coughing like hags' as they march through the mud. They are fatigued and unaware of the looming dangers, and even the sound of gas shells falling behind them does not alarm them. When they are suddenly ordered to put on their gas masks, they fumble with ecstasy, struggling to save themselves. Owen then paints a gruesome image of a comrade dying from gas, writhing in agony as blood and froth spill from his mouth.
Through these haunting descriptions, Owen strips away any notions of glory or honor associated with war and exposes its harsh reality. He directs his message towards those who still perpetuate the slogan of 'Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mori' to younger generations, who are eager for a taste of desperate glory. Like Sassoon, Owen uses his poetic voice to protest against the glorification of war, reminding us of its true horrors.
Wilfred Owen's 'Dulce et Decorum Est' is a poignant and powerful poem that depicts the stark contrast between the harsh realities of war and the glorified idea of dying for one's country. Through vivid imagery and emotional language, Owen captures the devastating effects of war and the harsh toll it takes on those involved.
Owen begins by describing a soldier who haunts his dreams, with 'white eyes writhing in his face' (lines 19-20) and gasping as if drowning (line 16). This chilling portrayal stands in stark contrast to the phrase 'Dulce et decorum est/ Pro patria mori' (lines 27-28), which means 'it is sweet and honorable to die for one's country'. Owen uses this phrase ironically to mock Horace's idea in his poem in Odes Book 3, where going to war is seen as an honorable and glorious experience for young men.
Owen's placement of 'Dulce et decorum est/ Pro patria mori' at the end of the poem is significant. He labels it 'the old lie' (line 27) and suggests that it is used to entice young men to enlist in war with false promises of glory and recognition. But through his vivid descriptions of the horrors of war, Owen challenges this notion and urges readers to question the value of dying for a romanticized idea of patriotism.
The works of First World War fiction offer valuable insights into the personal, social, and political impacts of the war. Whether written by those who served in the war or by those affected by it, these works provide a glimpse into the harsh realities of war and the immense suffering it caused. By learning about the devastation and destruction brought about by war, we can strive to prevent such conflicts from occurring in the future. Moreover, as First World War fiction resonates with many people due to its relatable themes of loss, courage, and suffering, it serves as a reminder of the human cost of war.
First World War fiction encompasses a variety of works that revolve around the events of the war that took place from 1914 to 1918. Some common themes found in this genre include the glorification of war, the harsh realities of war, and how war affects relationships. A subgenre of war poetry, First World War poetry was often written by poets who had firsthand experience of the war and drew inspiration from it.
Notable writers of First World War fiction include Ernest Hemingway, Richard Aldington, and Virginia Woolf. One of the most famous examples of First World War poetry is Wilfred Owen's 'Dulce et Decorum Est' (1920), which remains a poignant and thought-provoking piece.
The First World War had a significant impact on literature, bringing forth new themes and perspectives. The glorification of war versus the harsh realities of warfare became a common theme in literature inspired by the events of the war. One such example is the novel 'The Return of the Soldier' (1918) by Rebecca West, which explores the psychological impacts of war on soldiers and their loved ones.
Wilfred Owen's poem 'Dulce et Decorum Est' serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities of warfare and how young men are often convinced to sacrifice their lives in the pursuit of glory. This piece of First World War literature not only provides valuable lessons, but also offers a deeper understanding of the impact of war on both individuals and society as a whole, encouraging us to strive for peace and avoid repeating past mistakes.
