(Ch. 2) - All Quiet on the Western Front - Study Guide - English

Why does Paul refer to his generation as a “waste land”?

The war is an interruption to the newer generation. The older generation had a house, wive, and kids, and was experienced with life

Who is Corporal Himmelstoss?

He was Paul’s drill instructor. In civilian life, he was a mail man. He abused his power

What prejudice does Paul have against small men? Why?

He says that a lot of problems in the world come from small men, because they are so energetic, and uncompromising

How do Paul and Kropp get revenge on Himmelstoss?

Dumped a latrine bucket on Himmelstoss

According to Paul, what is the finest thing to arise from the war?

Conrade-ship

What makes Kemmerich’s death so personal for Paul?

They Grew up together

What is significant about Kemmerich’s telling Paul to take the boots for Muller?

He realized he’s gonna die

What is the great hunger Paul feels after Kemmerich’s death?

He has a hunger to live

What was the character of Paul from what was learned in the first two chapters

Pretty well educated

Kemmerich’s death illustrates part of the central message of the novel. Do you have an idea of what this message is?

The horror and futility of war