1.) Internally, Smith frequently highlights the class divisions within her unit of ambulance drivers, reflecting on her own middle-class status when carrying out tasks assigned by \u201cMrs. Bitch\u201d or the Red Cross (Smith 60). The war disrupts traditional hierarchies by placing positions of authority in the hands of lower-class women, forcing those from higher-class or more educated backgrounds to take orders. This inversion that underscores the tension within the unit, and is a constant theme within Smith’s internal dialogue. Do you believe that Smith’s attitude on class will switch as her job continues? Do you think “Smithy” has the ability to reflect on class consciousness in England in a more sympathetic manner? In what ways, if any, does she reflect on class disparities within her post or at home?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2.) “Smithy” receives letters from home, like clockwork. They’re placed on her bed and entail her family having great pride in the work that she’s doing in France. The letters often exclaim that Smith is “doing her bit for the old flag” and understands that she’d face harsh scrutiny if she were to be dismissed from the service (Smith 32). Smith recounts what it would be like if her relatives were with her when intaking brutalized soldiers within Chapter IV, as it makes her sick. In “All Quiet on the Western Front”, Paul hears a similar narrative about the war within his schooling and time on break. In what ways do Paul and Smith reconcile with societies claims about the war?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3.) Tosh, at the beginning of the text, cuts her hair to remedy the lice infestation the women face. She bluntly opposes the oppressive nature of the Commandant, and engages in dissenting dialogue without fear of retaliation. Smith also cuts her hair by the end of the sixth chapter and speaks back to the Commandant knowing it will get her in trouble (Smith 122). When Tosh passes, Smith thinks of her self as a coward, juxtaposing Tosh a someone who is brave (Smith 160). To what extent do you think Tosh’s actions or thoughts influenced Smith throughout chapters IV-VII?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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1.) Internally, Smith frequently highlights the class divisions within her unit of ambulance drivers, reflecting on her own middle-class status when carrying out tasks assigned by \u201cMrs. Bitch\u201d or the Red Cross (Smith 60). The war disrupts traditional hierarchies by … Continue reading