Summary And Symbolism In All Quiet On The Western Front

While symbolism was not supremely prevalent throughout the novel, there was some to be found. Kantorek and/or Himmelstoss were both little men that brought unhappiness into the world (p.10). These men symbolize Austria-Hungary and/or Serbia, for little countries brought unhappiness into the world in the form of World War I. On page 59, Paul recalls the geese flying through the air and correlates their symbolism to the shells being fired during the bombardment. The soldiers also became very hungry for food during the midst of the novel (p.107-108), symbolizing their hunger for German victory and an end to the war. On page 138, Paul explains how one has to duck and dodge from terror, which symbolizes the shells being dropped since they were avoided in a similar manner. Also, Paul’s hopes that the Kaiser would be big and powerful fell through (p.202); this symbolizes how many thought Germany would be powerful during World War I, yet their trench warfare fell through. Another example of symbolism I noticed occurred on page 263, when Paul compares a hospital to war. He felt that a hospital symbolized how rough and dreadful a war is.

During the midst of the novel, the characters met some French women that they wanted to come see during the night. However, due to each country’s policy, neither could cross the bridge to go to the opponent’s side (p.144). In response, the German soldiers crossed at night when they could not be seen. German newspapers also convinced the soldiers that they were on the right side during the war, and the French were on the wrong side (p.203-204). When Paul Baümer returned home on leave, he ran into a major that embarrassed him in public because he was wearing his uniform, and thus changed into civilian clothes to avoid being embarrassed again