Regeneration Character Summary

Dr. William Rivers

Dr. Rivers is a compassionate and skilled psychiatrist who treats soldiers suffering from shell shock. He represents the theme of healing and the moral complexities of war as he battles the psychological ramifications of conflict on his patients.
Key Quote: "I want to understand, to help, that is all."

Soldier Poetic Voices

Several soldiers in the narrative have their own unique voices, each reflecting their experiences and perspectives on war. Characters such as Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon illustrate the psychological trauma soldiers endure and the impact of war on their lives and identities.
Key Quote: "My subject is war, and the pity of war. The poetry is in the pity."

Prior

Prior is a key character who struggles with the effects of war and represents those who are silenced by their traumas. His character demonstrates the consequences of war on personal relationships and the individual psyche.
Key Quote: "You can’t choose, can you? You just go on. You have to."

Billy Prior

Billy Prior is a soldier grappling with the realities of life after the war. His reflections on his experiences highlight the disillusionment and psychological scars left by the conflict.
Key Quote: "There were no victories in war, just survival."

Regeneration

The concept of regeneration depicts the transformation of characters throughout the novel, particularly in terms of their understanding of life and the moral ambiguities of war. Each character goes through a process of renewing their identity.
Key Quote: "You are not the person you were before the war."

Sassoon

Siegfried Sassoon is a strong anti-war figure whose refusal to return to the front line becomes a pivotal moment in the story. His character represents bravery in the face of institutional pressure and the ethical implications of fighting in a war that he no longer believes in.
Key Quote: "I am not in the war for glory, I will not be a part of this anymore."