Making Sense of the Great War: Crisis, Englishness, and Morale on the Western Front

The First World War was an unprecedented crisis that destroyed the natural world and exposed previously held truths about military morale and tactics. Alex Mayhew's book "Making Sense of the Great War" shows that English infantrymen rarely interpreted their experiences in this way, seeking to survive, navigate the crises, and craft meaningful narratives about their service.

Format: Hardback
Length: 366 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The First World War was an unparalleled crisis, causing immense suffering and destruction across communities and societies. In Belgium and France, the devastating power of modern weaponry not only ravaged the natural environment but also shattered previously held beliefs about military morale and tactics. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers endured unimaginable hardships, facing conditions that have often been considered the worst in combat. How did these men survive such extreme conditions? What did their experiences mean to them? How did they perceive the events of the war?

While the trenches of the Western Front have become synonymous with the futility and hopelessness of the Great War, Alex Mayhew's book, "Making Sense of the Great War," reveals a different perspective. Mayhew argues that English infantrymen rarely interpreted their experiences in these terms. Instead, they sought to survive, navigate the challenges they faced, and create meaningful narratives about their service.

In "Making Sense of the Great War," Mayhew explores the mechanisms that enabled these infantrymen to endure and thrive in the face of adversity. He examines the social and cultural factors that shaped their experiences, as well as the technological advancements that played a crucial role in their survival. Mayhew also delves into the psychological impact of war, exploring how soldiers coped with the trauma and stress of combat.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of community and camaraderie among infantrymen. Despite the horrors of war, these men formed strong bonds with their fellow soldiers, relying on each other for support and survival. They shared their experiences, laughed and cried together, and created a sense of purpose and meaning in their service.

Another important aspect of Mayhew's book is the role of leadership in shaping the experiences of infantrymen. He argues that the leadership of officers and non-commissioned officers played a crucial role in determining the morale and effectiveness of the troops. Effective leadership provided guidance, support, and inspiration, helping soldiers to overcome the challenges they faced.

Mayhew also explores the cultural and historical context of the Great War, examining how it shaped the attitudes and beliefs of infantrymen. He discusses the impact of propaganda, the changing nature of warfare, and the social and economic changes that occurred in Europe during the war.

Through his research and analysis, Mayhew provides a fresh perspective on the Great War, challenging the traditional narratives that have been perpetuated for decades. He sheds light on the resilience and determination of English infantrymen, showing how they survived and thrived in the face of unimaginable adversity.

"Making Sense of the Great War" is a valuable contribution to the study of the First World War, offering a deeper understanding of the experiences of infantrymen and the mechanisms that allowed them to endure and thrive in the face of extreme adversity. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the war and the human cost of conflict.

ISBN-13: 9781009168755