Final answer:
Rupert Brooke's poem 'The Soldier' has a patriotically contemplative and inquisitive tone, contrasting with Siegfried Sassoon's realistic and grim portrayal of war.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tone of Rupert Brooke's pre-war poem The Soldier can be described as patriotically contemplative and elegiac, with an overarching sentiment of idealism. Initially, there is a sense of intimacy as the speaker shares personal reflections, creating a connection with the reader. As the poem progresses, it shifts to a more inquisitive tone, marked by questions about the essence of serving one's country. This shift reflects the speaker's introspection on the meaning of sacrifice. Brooke's portrayal contrasts sharply with Siegfried Sassoon's view of war, which is filled with the gruesome reality of conflict and lacks any romanticized heroism.