World War I: A Synthesis Essay

World War I, otherwise known as the Great War; a tragedy so big and so dangerous that no other word but “great” can describe it. This particular conflict took place between 1914-1918. Countries sent many troops all over Europe to fight, whether it be for the Central Powers or for the Allies. Although, America joined late into battle, in 1917, after much debate and controversy. This war impacted more than just the politics; it also had a major influence on literature and art. These works of literature included All Quiet on the Western Front, a novel, written in 1929 by Erich Remarque. Having experience on the front lines, he points out the hardships and realities during that time. Works of art included an American government hired artist, James
Remarque’s interpretation undermines Flagg’s presentation of unity. In Flagg’s poster, Together We Win!, all three men come from different occupations but are unified for their country; however, these men will never fight together since they are all going to be at different fronts. One man represents the home front, the other the seafront, and the last the front lines. In his other piece, The Navy Needs You, the sailor is so high up in ranking that he will most likely never fight next to the man he has his soldier on. Flagg’s presentation is an illusion to what coming together really is. From his posters, it can be inferred that his meaning of unity is people who generally join together to fight for a cause, despite knowing one another. Remarque counters Flagg’s point and through All Quiet on the Western Front illustrates a completely different meaning. He uses his work to show that soldiers come together because of the experiences they’ve had and being able to relate to one another. In the book, one of the soldiers, Kemmerich, is dying but he says, “You can take my lace-up boots for Muller.” (28) Although at first, this statement might not be significant, it actually shows how even though he is dying, Kemmerich still cares deeply about his fellow comrade and wants to make sure that Muller is protected. The soldiers genuinely care about each other despite being forced to fight in a war together. Later on in the book, Remarque directly counters national unity. He writes, “To make matters worse, we have to return all our new things and take back our old rags.” (207) The soldiers are given new uniforms to wear for when the Kaiser comes to visit, however they are taken away as soon as he leaves. It is as if they are putting on the illusion portrayed in Flagg’s pieces, and only seem united because they are in the same unit. But, seen throughout the book, they are