Disillusionment is "a freeing or a being freed from illusion or conviction." (Webster's 384) A synonym for this word that we all are probably much more familiar with is reality. In my case, reality has really only hit me once in my life, when my son was born almost 5 years ago. I can only imagine how war can make reality seem so clear, so, well, real for the lack of a better word. There is no false security and no mental relaxation. The soldiers in this book, and all soldiers, everywhere, are disillusioned when in the trenches of war.
             All Quiet on the Western Front is the story of young men who enlist in the German Army during World War I. Their expectations of army life and battle are met and far exceeded during their first stint in the trenches. They see fighting and death in an amount they could have only imagined while envisioning their journey to becoming heroes. The experiences they share will change their lives, and for many, will end them.
             Disillusionment occurs for many reasons. The biggest of all is being in the middle of a war. Most people in their lifetime will never experience the reality that comes with being in a war, or with being on the warfront. These days war is being brought to us, the American public, in the form of terrorist attacks, sniper shooters, and chemical warfare. We have all seen what can happen to our country because of war, and because of poor decisions and misunderstandings, but only a handful of people can experience the fear and harsh reality of a warfront.
             A soldier runs the gamete of emotions during this time including the pride of serving one's country, the adrenaline rush of a kill, the need for camaraderie, the grief for a loss of life, and the despair of being away from home and family. Perhaps one crucial emotion is personal pride. Not only can this cause a soldier to become ev
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