The philosophy of Existentialism is a critical lens through which we can evaluate the ethics and morality of Albert Kropp, a soldier in Erich Maria Remarque’s novel, All Quiet on the Western Front. Albert is a clear thinker whose experiences in the war shape his worldview, as he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the notion of nationalism and war.

According to existentialist writers, war brings only wreck and ruin which existentialists deem absurd. Similarly, Albert views war as a kind of fever that nobody wants, but everyone has (Remarque, 206). He realizes that the war has ruined him for everything, and he and his fellow soldiers will likely die. Albert’s experiences demonstrate that existentialist writers were correct in their assertion that war brings only destruction.

Existentialist philosopher, Jean-Paul Sartre explored what it means to be human, and he questioned how the structures of our consciousness inform how we can direct the path of our own lives. Albert’s experiences show that he also grapples with what it means to be human. For example, he is compassionate toward the wounded and is willing to help them. He demonstrates that one’s life has value so long as one attributes value to the life of others, by means of love, friendship, indignation, and compassion.

Moreover, Existentialism emphasizes that no moral theory can affect one’s decision to do something “good” or “bad.” It is one’s own values they choose to accept that cause the choices made. Albert displays this philosophy in his disobedience towards Himmelstoss, the strict disciplinarian training officer in his military training camp. This idea of good versus bad may be related to the fact that in existentialism, there is a painful, fearful amount of too much freedom called existential angst. Jean-Paul Sartre explored this angst in questioning how the structures of our consciousness inform how we can direct the path of our own lives. In the novel, Albert’s actions are all his own. For example, when he comforts Paul after stabbing a man to death, he tells him, “You don’t need to lose any sleep over your affair” (Remarque, 229). This shows that Albert has his own sense of morality and is not bound by any external moral code.

“In existential thought, we decide to be merciful, to be compassionate, to restrain ourselves, not out of any higher moral code, but because we choose to do so for our own reasons. In existential war, therefore, there is no absolute requirement for mercy, compassion or restraint” (The Institute, 2008). This is clearly evident in Albert’s behavior in the novel. He often wants to help the wounded and shows immense care for those around him. However, he would rather commit suicide than be crippled all his life, which shows the mercy he portrays to others and the lack of restraint he has for himself as he goes on to discuss how he will kill himself whenever he receives his handgun again (Remarque, 261).

Overall, the philosophy of Existentialism provides a unique perspective on the morality and ethics of Albert Kropp. Albert’s actions and decisions are not influenced by any external theory or ideology, but rather by his own personal experiences and values. He thinks for himself, questions authority, and draws his own conclusions.