Compare and contrast the theme of idolatry in Pat Barkers Regeneration and R.C Sherriffs Journeys End. How far do you agree that Sherriffs presentation is more believable?

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Luna smith

Compare and contrast the theme of idolatry in Pat Barker's "Regeneration" and R.C Sherriff's "Journey's End". How far do you agree that Sherriff's presentation is more believable?

Barker and Sherriff use "Regeneration" and "Journey's End" respectively, in order to convey similar views on idolatry. In both texts this form of adoration and reverence is depicted as flawed and the view is conveyed that other forms of relationship are more constructive. This is achieved by portraying characters in idolatrous relationships which are not conducive to coping with war- namely, the relationships between Raleigh and Stanhope, and between Owen and Sassoon - in parallel to those mutually respectful relationships based on understanding and empathy such as Sassoon and Rivers' and the friendship between Osborne and Stanhope. In "Journey's End" the dramatic form allows for a much starker contrast and consequently the message, and particularly the condemnation of idolatry, is more believable.

In both texts the motivations behind the characters' idolatry are explored. Sherriff presents the character of Raleigh as young and naïve, which perhaps accounts for his idolatry. When Raleigh first enters the trench he is oblivious to the realities of war, as is demonstrated when