A Yankee in the Trenches · Theme
Propaganda and Moral Justification
How A Yankee in the Trenches develops Propaganda and Moral Justification.
The book serves as a piece of wartime propaganda, explicitly urging American support for Liberty Loans and Red Cross work, while framing the conflict as a fight against 'Prussianism' and German atrocities.
Where it surfaces
- IV: A Few Days’ Rest in Billets
The French woman's story of German cruelty reinforces the narrative of the 'beastly Hun,' justifying the soldiers' hatred and their resolve to fight viciously.
- XI: Prisoners
German prisoners believed they would be skinned alive if captured, showing the power of propaganda, while the British treat them with unexpected humanity.
- Suggestions for "Sammy"
The advice to 'cover up' bad news and 'smile, smile, smile' reflects the pressure to maintain a positive front and support the war effort.