Write 3–5 sentences describing the poet’s perspective in one of the poems and connecting it to the events of the time, such as World War I. How did literature help people cope with the effects of the war?
One example of a poem from World War I is Wilfred Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est," which vividly depicts the horrors of warfare and challenges the glorification of war. Owen's perspective in the poem is one of bitter irony and disillusionment, as he describes the graphic realities of gas attacks and the physical and mental toll on soldiers. This perspective reflects the widespread disillusionment and trauma experienced by soldiers during World War I, as they endured the brutality and senselessness of the conflict.
Literature like Owen's poems provided a voice for the soldiers who were often silenced or marginalized during the war, allowing them to express their experiences and emotions. By portraying the harsh realities of warfare, these poems helped to challenge romanticized perceptions of war and raise awareness of the human cost of conflict. Reading and discussing these works also provided a sense of catharsis and solidarity for soldiers and civilians alike, helping them to process and cope with the trauma and devastation of the war.