Land Through

19th century England concentrated on the expansion of power and land through

imperialism, emphasizing its supremacy throughout the world. Accordingly, with World War I

approaching, the men of England stood strong and ready to defeat their enemies for the love of

their country. Even in recruitment propaganda, notions of pride for one's nation were utilized to

enlist more men. Nevertheless, as the war progressed, the fighting, weaponry, and wounded

became more than just a luxurious game. It was real. They entered the war as men but left with

missing limbs, shell shock, and in caskets. As Siegfried Sassoon, an English soldier, noted in his

poem, "They," "The Bishop tells us: 'When the boys come back [t]hey will not be the same; for

they'll have fought [i]n a just cause...'We're none of us the same!' the boys reply" (2025).

Sassoon demonstrates the disillusionment of the war itself. Authoritative figures tell these men

that what they are doing is patriotic and respectful. Propaganda posters portray men playing

sports during wartime with their fellow comrades, but their lives are completely transformed for

the worse afterwards. "Dulce Et Decorum Est," a poem written by Wilfred Owen, is another

example of their country's betrayal. A soldier himself, Owen illustrates the environment of the

battlefield and trenches within the first three stanzas and ends his piece with a memorable line,

"My friend, you would not tell with such high zest [t]o children ardent for some desperate glory,

[t]he old Lie: Dulce et decorum est [p]ro patria mori" (2037). The Latin phrase can be translated

to "It is sweet and meet to die for one's country. Sweet! And decorous!" Once again, this idea of

patriotism and martyrdom are drilled into naïve men's minds to convince them to enlist.

However, not only do these men question what the purpose of their sacrifice is, but they question

their devotion to their nation. Their identity as Englishmen is at jeopardy.

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