Dulce et Decorum Est Flashcards
War (6 cards)
“Bent double” “Knock-Kneed”
War has had a physical toll on the soldiers, wearing them down.
“Distant rest”
They have not truly rested in a long while, due to the constant fighting and moving of war. Perhaps “distant rest” alludes to their inevitable death in war.
“Men marched asleep”
The fatigue and lack of rest caused the soldiers to seem to fall asleep while marching. Perhaps, war and marching even reaches them in their dreams.
“All went blind. All went lame.”
Repetition of “all” emphasises the widespread suffering caused by fighting in war.
“an ecstasy of fumbling”
Ironic contrast of the extreme happiness of “ecstasy” with the mass panic of “fumbling” and impending harm.
“He plunges at me, guttering, chocking, drowning.”
Emphasises the suffering of the soldier. The verbs are in the present tense, as if they are currently happening, creating a helpless feeling.
