Final answer:
The given texts illustrate a stark contrast between childhood innocence and the harsh realities of adult situations, emphasizing themes of innocence versus brutality and the impact of human experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The excerpts provided present various scenes juxtaposing the innocence and vulnerability of children against the backdrop of dire, often adult, situations. From a literary analysis perspective, these narratives showcase elements like irony, juxtaposition, and the loss of innocence. The 'terrible resemblance to a child forcing a kitten's nose into a saucer of milk to compel it to drink' illustrates this theme of innocence entwined with a more sinister reality. For instance, a child naively leading a procession in a war-torn landscape embodies the chilling blend of playfulness and tragedy.
Similarly, the scene in which a child is confused by the battle's remnants reflects the contrast between the world of children and adults. The reference to Little Fay's trust amidst pain, the farmer refusing food to a desperate man, and characters experiencing deep emotions while grappling with personal turmoil or war's after-effects are all thematic threads highlighting the human condition's complexities.
This thematic analysis focuses on understanding how portrayals of children and war contrast innocence and violence, ultimately emphasizing the profound impact of human experiences on individuals, particularly the young.