For the Duration of the War

Name: For the Duration of the War
Author: Hector Hugh Munro

The story revolves around a group of British officers stationed in France during World War I. The narrative explores their relationships and interactions with each other, as well as the societal norms they adhere to. The protagonist's character is portrayed through his inner monologue, which reveals his cynicism towards the war and its effects on those involved. His observations are often humorous and satirical, highlighting the absurdity of certain situations. Throughout the story, themes of masculinity, class, and morality are examined. The officers' adherence to traditional values is contrasted with their experiences in the trenches, leading to a sense of disillusionment and moral ambiguity. The narrative also touches on the psychological effects of war on those who participate in it. The protagonist's inner turmoil and emotional detachment serve as a commentary on the dehumanizing nature of conflict. Ultimately, the story presents a bleak view of war and its impact on individuals, highlighting the futility and senselessness of violence.

By Hector Hugh Munro · First published 1916 · Genre: Satire, Comedy, Literary Fiction · 1,985 words

First lines

The Rev. Wilfrid Gaspilton, in one of those clerical migrations inconsequent-seeming to the lay mind, had removed from the moderately fashionable parish of St. Luke's, Kensingate, to the immoderately rural parish of St. Chuddocks, somewhere in Yondershire. There were doubtless substantial advantages connected with the move, but there were certainly some very obvious drawbacks. Neither the migratory clergyman nor his wife were able to adapt themselves naturally and comfortably to the conditions of country life. Beryl, Mrs. Gaspilton, had always looked indulgently on the country as a place where people of irreproachable income and hospitable instincts cultivated tennis-lawns and rose-gardens and Jacobean pleasaunces, wherein selected gatherings of interested week- end guests might disport themselves. Mrs. Gaspilton considered herself as distinctly an interesting personality, and from a limited standpoint she was doubtless right.

What this Textopian page supports

For the Duration of the War is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hector Hugh Munro, dated 1916 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Hector Hugh Munro
Date: 1916 CE
Language: English
Genres: Satire, Comedy, Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Historical Fiction
Length: 1,985 words
Structure: 1 section, 29 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for For the Duration of the War by Hector Hugh Munro
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering For the Duration of the War?
How does this short story by Hector Hugh Munro fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Satire first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Satire — The narrative employs humor and irony to critique societal norms and the pretensions of its characters.
Comedy — The story contains elements of humor and wit, particularly in the interactions and situations involving the main characters.
Literary Fiction — The work focuses on character development and explores themes of societal expectations and personal aspirations.
Social Commentary — The text provides insights into the social dynamics and cultural attitudes of the time, particularly through the lens of rural and urban contrasts.