Comradeship

        

One of the main concepts in All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque is comradeship. Comradeship is very important during war because it can be the difference between life and death. In war there is very horrific images and scenes that can cause any strong willed man to be in complete fear. With comradeship people can overcome these problems. In chapter 4, a new young recruit becomes frightened during his first battle from the gunfire and explosions. The recruit goes to Paul and buries himself in Paul’s chest. Paul tells the recruit soothingly that he will get used to it. By having comradeship, the recruit was able to feel better and safer during the battle. Another example of comradeship was in chapter 3. Paul and his friends decide to ambush and beat on Himelstoss for his harsh punishments toward Tjaden for bed-wetting. Together, the group of boys display comradeship by working together to serve justice to Himelstoss. Lastly, comradeship is shown when Kemmerich is dying in chapter 2. Paul shows compassion and tries to cheer Kemmerich up despite the fact that he is slowly dying. Paul even tries to look for a doctor to treat Kemmerich, but by then Kemmerich has already died. In conclusion, comradeship is a vital part in an army. Without it, war would be very difficult and death would be more likely.