The Poetic Witness: Owen and Sassoon's Perspective on the Human Condition in WWI

This thesis aims to examine the impact of "War Poets" on the perception of war and the human condition through the lens of literature. These poets, primarily active during the First and Second World Wars, produced works that reflect their direct experiences in battle and the profound emotions associated with armed conflict. The analysis of their poems will allow us to understand how these authors influenced how society has approached and understood war, providing a humanistic perspective in a context often dominated by political and strategic aspects. The study delves into the poetic works of Owen and Sassoon to dissect their unique perspectives on the human condition during WWI. Their verses act as a lens through which the physical and psychological toll of warfare is examined, revealing the dehumanizing effects of combat, the loss of innocence, and the fragmentation of individual and collective identities. By analyzing their poems, including Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est" and Sassoon's "The General," we gain insight into the moral outrage, disillusionment, and existential crisis that characterized their wartime experiences. These war poets did not merely critique war in isolation; they influenced societal perceptions. Their poems were published and widely read during and after the war, contributing to a growing anti-war sentiment. The horrors depicted in their verses ignited public outrage, fostering a sense of urgency to prevent future conflicts. Public awareness of the suffering endured by soldiers on the frontlines led to greater support for veterans, including improved medical care and psychological support. This societal shift can be seen as a direct response to the stark realities unveiled by the war poets.