Fussell_Great+War+and+Modern+Memory+excerpt

Incident Near Albert: Rudolf Binding recounts the German infantry's sudden halt near Albert, creating confusion as airmen reported no enemy presence.
Observations: Binding notes odd sights—men not resembling soldiers, some driving cows, carrying hens, dragging curtains, looting wine, and donning comic disguises.
Midsummer Conditions: By midsummer, it was evident that the successful German offensive led to self-destruction. The Allies began a counterattack on "The Black Day of the German Army" (August 8).
Significance of American and British Advances: American attacks in September and simultaneous British advances led to rapid German collapse, signifying a shift in momentum.

German Decline: The German forces were in disarray as maneuvers became possible for the Allies for the first time since 1914.
Final Days: On November 9, 1918, after the Kaiser fled, Germany declared itself a republic, soon after signing the Armistice on November 11, costing millions of lives: 3.5 million for the Central Powers and over 5 million for the Allies.

Philip Larkin's Observation: Larkin reflects on the innocence before the war, highlighting the ironic turn of events.
Contemplation of Elegance: In his poem "MCMXIV," Larkin describes the innocence and sincerity of men lined up outside a recruiting station, oblivious to the impending darkness.
Imagery of Innocence: Larkin paints a vivid picture of men in hats and smiles, indicating a world ripe for destruction.

Contrast to Future Wars: The document explores how the public’s perception of war changed over time, moving from naivety to cynicism due to prolonged conflicts.
Unique Mentality Pre-War: According to A. J. P. Taylor, there was a lack of awareness of the true nature of war, which was believed to be swiftly resolved.

Varied Perspectives on War: There was a simple, positive discourse surrounding the concept of war, with enthusiastic participation viewed as noble.
Commodification of Terms: The language surrounding war conventions retained innocent meanings, free from modern double entendres about relationships and warfare.
Evolution Post-War: Post-war literature, such as Hemingway's works, starkly contrasted earlier ideals of honor and glory. Traditional heroic language became obsolete.

Pamphlets and Poetry: References to literature praised honor, bravery, and camaraderie, contrasting today's cynicism towards these ideals.
Psychological Disposition: The men believed in honor and morality before the war, viewing it as some form of sporting event rather than a dire fight for survival.

Sporting Spirit in Warfare: The belief that war would be engaging and likened to sporting events reflected a societal innocence. Rupert Brooke’s letters reveal a romantic view of war as fun.
Cricket as Metaphor: Sports like cricket positioned war as a spirited rivalry rather than a brutal conflict.

Post-War Contrasts: By the war's end, the lofty aspirations of early 20th-century society gave way to brutal realities, altering societal views and cultural narratives.
Forgotten Ideals: The ideals highlighted in early war communication devolved into a more pragmatic, less romantic narrative by the war's conclusion, showcasing the profound shift in societal values.