Question

Forward, forward, join in, follow. And the word of command does what all my banging could not. Himmelstoss hears the order, looks round him as if awakened, and follows on. I come after and watch him go over. Once more he is the smart Himmelstoss of the paradeground, he has even outstripped the lieutenant and is far ahead. Bombardment, barrage, curtain-fire, mines, gas, tanks, machine-guns, hand-grenades--words, words, but they hold the horror of the world. a) A description of military training

b) An analysis of the impact of commands in war
c) A commentary on the brutality of warfare
d) A discussion on the power of language in battle

Answer 1

A commentary on the brutality of warfare" is supported by the passage's vivid portrayal of dehumanization, the brutal impact of commands, and the overall horror experienced in the context of war. Thus the correct option is c.

Step-by-step explanation:

The provided passage reflects a vivid portrayal of the brutal nature of warfare, going beyond a simple description of military training or an analysis of the impact of commands. The words "Forward, forward, join in, follow" highlight the mechanized, dehumanizing nature of war, reducing individuals to mere entities following orders. The transformation of Himmelstoss from a figure of authority in the paradeground to a follower in the chaos of battle underscores the leveling and brutalizing effects of war on individuals. The subsequent enumeration of destructive elements such as "bombardment, barrage, curtain-fire, mines, gas, tanks, machine-guns, hand-grenades" further emphasizes the brutality and horror intrinsic to the experience of war.

The narrative reveals the dehumanizing power of commands in the context of warfare. The contrast between the command-driven actions and the ineffectiveness of physical force, as indicated by the protagonist's failed attempts at "banging," underscores the dominance of orders in shaping the behavior of individuals on the battlefield. The urgency conveyed by the repeated commands and the immediate compliance of Himmelstoss demonstrate the stark reality of war, where obedience to commands becomes a survival imperative. Thus, the passage serves as a poignant commentary on the brutality inherent in the structured and command-driven nature of warfare.

In summary, the passage provides a visceral commentary on the brutality of warfare, using vivid language to illustrate the dehumanizing effects of commands and the overwhelming horror experienced on the battlefield. It transcends a mere portrayal of military training or a discussion on language's power, offering a profound exploration of the grim realities faced by individuals caught in the midst of armed conflict.