JE - osborne Flashcards
(4 cards)
1st paragraph - Osborne as a leader and mentor
First, Osborne’s calmness and reason makes him a stabilising presence in the trenches, highlighting his natural ability to be a leader. Early on, Hardy says “you ought to be commanding this company, Osborne.” which reflects Osborne’s wisdom, and quiet strength. Furthering this, the other men see him as a mentor, nicknaming him “uncle.” Sherriff almost constructs Osborne as a father figure, affectionately tending to his children, like when he “tucks” Stanhope into bed. Sherriff intends to showcase to the audience how war reduces grown men into vulnerable and frightened children. During World War 1, many officers were in fact merely boys, not yet men, so were incredibly young and inexperienced, unaware of the reality of war.
2nd paragraph - Osborne and Stanhope’s relationship
A central part of Osborne’s character is his close relationship with Stanhope, emphasising the themes of comradeship and trust. Unlike the other officers, Osborne never questioned Stanhope’s competence, despite him “drinking like a fish”. He passionately defends him calling him the “best company commander we’ve got” and saying he would “go to hell with him”. This impressive declaration not only shows the depth of Osborne’s loyalty but also the shared experience of suffering they endured. One interpretation is that war could be considered as hell, so Osborne stuck to his word and remained beside Stanhope. To the audience, this line is deeply moving, as it reveals how war has created bonds stronger than fear.
3rd paragraph - Osborne’s death
Finally, Osborne’s death serves as a turning point in the play, powerfully conveying the futility of war. He faces the raid with dignity, giving his ring to Stanhope before leaving, revealing to audiences how aware he is that he will not return – yet he never questions the purpose of it. His death is not heroic or glorious; it happens offstage, without drama, announces simply by Raleigh’s broken line “Osborne’s - Osborne’s” The audience is left shocked and saddened, not just by the loss itself but by how casually it is delivered – leaving them to question if war was truly worth it? This magnifies the moral cost of war and reinforces the idea that even the most decent and noble man can be lost. Sherriff uses Osborne’s death to highlight how war wastes good men, successfully criticising the senselessness of war.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sherriff uses Osborne to explore the futility of war, illustrating how even the most decent, kindhearted men can be lost in a conflict. Osborne’s character serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war, leaving the audience to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought in World War 1.
