“Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mori” – the words roughly translated into English mean that it is sweet to die for one's country. Written by Wilfred Owen, the words embrace patriotism and resonate with the patriot in each of us. Nevertheless, the words ironically convey Owen's conviction and concern for his compatriots and comrades in arms. Erich Note's work, "All Quiet on the Western Front", a play similar to Owens', chronicles the daily struggle of soldiers and their inability to integrate upon their return from war. Note says: “I am so alone and so hopeless that I can face them without fear. » One begins to wonder what kind of horrors could drive a man to utter such discouraging words; However, after reading about the scale of the deaths and the horrors committed during the war, we begin to understand their point of view. The propaganda of honor and prestige presented by countries and generals during the war to encourage men to enlist was false and unfair according to both men. To understand why the war became what it did, we must first understand how it began. The systems of alliances between nations and the arms races were the first actions which allowed the outbreak of war. Intense nationalism and the glorification of war quickly set the stage for World War I. (The Great War: ProQuest History Study Center) During the 19th century, war became a celebration in European culture. The phenomenon contributes to the gender dynamics of the European social structure, but many viewed war as a means to gain honor and prestige. Although those who repeatedly view war as honorable have never faced it face to face, like Owen and Stratégie, countless individuals have been convinced to enlist. (The Great War: ProQuest History St...... middle of paper ......ed to convey. The loss of life is not a game and it is not trivial. War must be respected and feared, not glorified and honored. Through the use of imagery and allusion, Remark in "All Quiet on the Western Front" and Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est" convey the futility and horror of the war. Individuals who did not go to war never realized the complications and tragic situations encompassing the war. Through the creations of their works, citizens around the world were able, for the first time, to see. what actually happened on the war front. They read about individuals who tragically lost their lives and saw soldiers being maimed for life works, one can conclude that war is not a game. It. is not as honorable and prestigious as the powers of the 19th century would have us believe. It is ultimately a waste of life and must be considered and treated as such...