Aristotle’s philosophy of ethics provides an excellent framework for evaluating the morality and ethics of Paul Baumer, the protagonist of the novel All Quiet on the Western Front. The novel tells the story of a young German soldier who experiences the horrors of World War I and its impact on his values and the way he views society.  In this essay, we will analyze and evaluate Paul Baumer’s actions, thoughts, and behaviors based on Aristotle’s philosophy of ethics.

 “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” Paul Baumer is a thoughtful and reflective person who is torn between his loyalty to his country and his personal values. In chapter 2, Paul and his friends are convinced by their teacher, Mr. Kantorek, to join the army and fight for their country. Paul initially believes that fighting for his country is the right thing to do. However, as he experiences the horrors of war, he begins to question his beliefs and values. He realizes that war is not the glorious endeavor it was portrayed to be by authority figures. And soldiers are definitely not heroes. He reflects on the fact that he and his friends were manipulated into fighting for a cause that they did not fully understand. He entertains the thought that war is not just, and begins to question the morality of his actions.

Choosing between right and wrong can be difficult; especially during times of war. Is it right to kill an innocent man? This man already wears the blood of many, is it justifiable for me to kill him? What if he is my own comrade? As demonstrated on page 131, Paul finds Himmelstoss resting in a dugout pretending to be wounded. He becomes infuriated at the fact that an experienced soldier is hiding away while the new recruits are risking their lives fighting. In accord with Aristotle, people should have self-control and avoid excess in their actions. Paul demonstrates self-control when he refrains from physically attacking Himmelstoss, despite his anger and frustration. Furthermore, in chapter 9, when Paul and an injured French soldier are trapped together, rather than killing the man, Paul sympathizes with him and decides to help him. He chooses to do what he believes is right, even if it means going against his country’s values.

According to Aristotle, “Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.” Paul is a patient and resilient soldier who endures the hardships of war with bravery and courage. He is able to withstand the physical and emotional trauma of war and is always ready to do his duty. In chapter 10, he reflects on the fact that he has lost his youthful innocence and that he has become hardened by his experiences. However, he understands that patience and skill is required to survive in war, and is willing to endure the hardships to protect himself and his comrades. Moreover, during times of war, “The antidote for fifty enemies is one friend.” The novel consistently demonstrates the strong bond and friendship between Paul and Kat. Their friendship is a source of comfort for Paul, and it helps him get through the anguish of war. In chapter 5, Paul and Kat decide to go catch some geese; demonstrating their close and growing bond. In chapter 11, when Kat is killed, Paul is devastated and feels lost; he now has no one left. In the end, he would reflect on the value of their friendship and how much it has helped him survive in the war.

Despite the horrid atrocities of war, sometimes, a soldier could have some fun…right? Paul and his comrades decide to pay a visit to some women across the bank. There, Paul takes a particular interest in a brunette woman. Illustrated in chapter 7, the novel reveals that Paul finally feels at peace when he spends time with the woman. He states, “We have left our boots…now nothing remains to recall for the reassurance and self-confidence of the soldier; no rifle, no belt, no tunic, no cap.” Although Paul is able to strip himself of the dignity of a soldier for the time being, Aristotle argues that true friendship is built on mutual respect and virtuous behavior. In his Nicomachean Ethics, he writes, “Friendship is essentially a partnership” based on “reciprocal goodwill.” While Paul finds comfort in his relationship with the brunette woman, it is not necessarily based on mutual respect or virtuous behavior. Paul’s feelings towards her may stem more from his need for comfort and escape than from a true partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. Paul gives into the temptation of his wants rather than demonstrating self-control and discipline; eventually contradicting Aristotle’s belief of “I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies, for the hardest victory is over self.”In closing, Paul Baumer’s ethics and morality in All Quiet on the Western Front align with the teachings of Aristotle’s philosophy. Paul demonstrates self-control, sympathy for others, friendship, and a sense of belonging. However, war often causes soldiers, like Paul, to abandon their moral principles. Aristotle’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of living a rational and balanced life, and war goes against these principles. All Quiet on the Western Front highlights the devastating effects of war on soldiers and its eventual effects on the mentality of society as a whole.