"Where Only Machine-Gun Fire Brings Us Together": Exploring Camaraderie and Human Connection in War Poetry (thesis)

Abstract

Camaraderie helps redeem and blunt the horrors of war for some soldiers in some wars. While noting the value of camaraderie, this thesis examines in which wars camaraderie and connection characterize the war experience and which soldiers cannot access this redemptive and healing aspect of military service. In three chapters, I will explore the camaraderie and connection amongst fellow and enemy soldiers, as well as factors that help redeem the horrors of war in war poetry from three different conflicts and multiple perspectives. [From Introduction]