Memoirs of an Infantry Officer: Analysis of Major Characters
"Memoirs of an Infantry Officer" is a semi-autobiographical novel by Siegfried Sassoon that explores the transformation of George Sherston, a character moving from a life of leisure as a fox-hunting gentleman to the harsh realities of being an infantry officer during World War I. The narrative follows Sherston's experiences in the war, including his forced involvement in planning military operations and his subsequent injuries, which remove him from combat temporarily. Key characters in the novel include Aunt Evelyn, who represents concern and familial ties, as she believes Sherston is safe despite his grim reality. Colonel Kinjack plays a pivotal role as he perceives Sherston's psychological struggles after the Battle of the Somme, while Tyrrell, a pacifist, supports Sherston in expressing his dissenting views against military leadership. The novel also touches on the harrowing impacts of war through characters like Major O'Brien, who suffers from the exaggerated tales of war, and Kendle, who faces a tragic fate alongside Sherston. David Cromlech, another soldier, influences Sherston's decisions, highlighting the internal and societal pressures faced by those serving. Overall, the book provides a profound commentary on the psychological toll of warfare and the complex relationships formed during such turbulent times.
Memoirs of an Infantry Officer: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Siegfried Sassoon
First published: 1930
Genre: Novel
Locale: France and England
Plot: Social
Time: 1916–1917
George Sherston, who is transformed from “a fox-hunting man” to an officer in World War I. He is ordered to plan a raid for his soldiers without taking part in the fighting. Later, an attack of enteritis removes him from dangerous duty. Finally, however, he gets into the Battle of Arras and is wounded. Back in England, he writes a critical letter to his superiors. He expects to be court-martialed, but they refuse to take the letter seriously. When he resignedly recants, he is sent back to the battlefield.
Aunt Evelyn, who reared the orphan George and now thinks him safe in the transport service. She upsets him with her worry about his safety.
Colonel Kinjack, who believes Sherston is cracking up following the Battle of the Somme and has him assigned to an army school.
Tyrrell, a pacifist philosopher who helps Sherston compose his defiant letter to Colonel Kinjack.
Major O'Brien, a friend of Sherston and a casualty in a minor raid that is exaggerated in the London papers.
Kendle, who is killed at Sherston's side by a sniper.
David Cromlech, an iconoclast and fellow fighter at the Somme. He persuades Sherston to retract his critical statements by pointing out that otherwise he will be put into an insane asylum for the duration.