Essay Questions

How does Cormier explore the concept of a hero?

In the novel, Cormier explores the concept of heroism, and what it means to be a hero. He does this firstly through the character of Francis, whose heroic actions in warfare save his whole platoon. He is awarded a medal for bravery and is recognized by those around him as being courageous and heroic. However, due to events in his own life, such as his suicidal tendencies, he does not see himself as a hero.

The concept of a hero is also explored through the character of Larry. This character is depicted as being superficially like a hero. He looks like a stereotypical hero and also is the first man in Frenchtown to sign up for the war effort. However, when he returns he rapes Nicole, and Francis realizes that Larry is certainly not a hero. As such, we can see how the concept of heroism is questioned and explored in this text through different characters.

How are the flashbacks significant in the text?

Much of the text is in the form of flashbacks. Francis begins the story in the present day after he has returned from warfare and has sustained terrible injuries. However, the book regularly returns to Francis' memories of warfare and his childhood memories in Frenchtown.

By using flashbacks in the text, Cormier is mirroring the experience Francis feels as he is haunted by the past. He is constantly reminded of his traumatic experiences in warfare and also the trauma of witnessing Nicole's rape. As such, the use of flashbacks represents the persistence of the past and memories in Francis' life.