Bayonet Charge

• What does Hughes aim to show about the soldier’s experience?

  Hughes presents war as confusing, terrifying, and dehumanising. His intent is to strip away the glory of war, exposing its raw brutality.
• Why does Hughes use chaotic and fragmented structure?

  The erratic structure reflects the soldier’s panic and lack of control. Hughes intends to immerse the reader in the terror of sudden combat.
• How does Hughes portray the soldier’s internal conflict?

  The soldier moves from patriotism to fear, suggesting that ideals collapse under real violence. Hughes’ intent is to show how war shatters identity and purpose.
• Why does Hughes include nature in the battlefield?

  Nature is depicted as innocent and indifferent, highlighting the absurdity of human violence. Hughes criticises how war invades and destroys life.
• What is Hughes’ view on modern warfare?

  He presents modern soldiers as trapped by duty, likening them to “clockwork”. His intent is to show how war mechanises human beings, removing individuality.