Exploring traumatized soldiers: The intersection of War, theatre, and British Society in Mark Ravenhill’s Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat

Abstract

This research paper titled "Exploring Traumatized Soldiers: The Intersection of War, Theater, and British Society in Mark Ravenhill’s Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat" examines the impact of the Iraq War on British soldiers, their families, and society as a whole. Utilizing theoretical frameworks from psychology, specifically the works of Sigmund Freud and Cathy Caruth, the study analyzes the concept of trauma within the context of war. By focusing on Mark Ravenhill's play Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat, the research investigates how the play portrays the experiences of British soldiers affected by the 2003 invasion of Iraq and the subsequent challenges faced by the British people. Through the analysis, the study aims to uncover the psychological and emotional consequences of war trauma on individuals and its broader societal implications. The utilization of psychological perspectives provides a deeper understanding of the complexities of war trauma. Drawing on Freud's and Caruth's theories, the research explores the lasting effects of trauma on soldiers and its intersection with theater and British society. By examining the portrayal of traumatized soldiers in Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat and analyzing the psychological dimensions of trauma, this study offers valuable insights into the interplay between war, theater, and British society. It contributes to a broader understanding of the long-term impact of war on individuals and communities, emphasizing the role of theater in addressing and representing collective trauma. In conclusion, this research paper provides a significant exploration of the experiences of traumatized soldiers, the effects of war on British society, and the capacity of theater to engage with and depict collective trauma.