Abstract
The theme of imminent apocalypse in Girard's new book Achever Clausewitz is used to locate the origin of the threats to contemporary society in the 1914-18 War. A study of Sassoon is offered as a model of "the intelligence of the victim." Girard's thesis of the mimetic origins of violence is explained and applied to the decades before 1914. Girard's concept of interdividual psychology is explored and illustrated by Sassoon's early development, focusing in particular on his malleability, narcissism and homosexuality. The nature of reciprocal violence in trench warfare is described. Sassoon's diaries and memoirs are used to illustrate the evolution of his Girardian awareness, culminating in his statement of May 1917, criticizing the British war aims. The conclusion notes the connection between Sassoon and Dom Sebastian Moore, whose thought has since converged with Girard's.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
