In Erich Maria Remarque’s novel, All Quiet on the Western Front, the character Albert Kropp emerges as a profound embodiment of Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophical ideas. Kropp’s experiences as a soldier provide a platform to evaluate the ethics of his actions and beliefs through Nietzsche’s works, such as Thus Spoke Zarathustra, Beyond Good and Evil, The Birth of Tragedy, and Human, and All Too Human. By examining selected quotes from both the novel and Nietzsche’s writings, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ethical dimensions of Albert Kropp’s character comparatively to Nietzsche’s philosophical ideas. 

Nietzsche’s critique of traditional moral values aligns with Albert Kropp’s disillusionment with the ethics of war. Kropp questions the absurdity of the conflict and the morality it claims to uphold, as evidenced by his remark: “[W]e are here to protect our fatherland. And the French are over there to protect their fatherland. Now who’s in the right?” (Remarque). This quote highlights Kropp’s skepticism regarding the validity of moral claims in war. Nietzsche’s critique of moral absolutism and his call for individual self-assessment resonate with Kropp’s critical examination of the conflicting moral justifications for war and he talked about the point to war, and whether or not if he is on the right side of history.

Nietzsche’s concept of the “will to power” finds resonance in Kropp’s determination to maintain his agency and survival in the face of the war’s horrors. When shot and contemplating suicide, Kropp reveals a yearning for self-determination: “But what I like to know is whether there would not have been a war if the Kaiser had said No. […] Well, if not him alone, then perhaps if twenty or thirty people in the world had said No” (Remarque). Kropp’s contemplation of the Kaiser’s influence on the war demonstrates his desire for individual autonomy and his recognition of the power held by influential figures. Nietzsche’s concept of the will to power, in this context, manifests as Kropp’s longing for a world where individual decisions can shape the course of the world.

Nietzsche’s notion of the Übermensch, or Superman, challenges societal norms and encourages self-overcoming. While Kropp may not fully embody Superman, he exhibits qualities that align with Nietzsche’s vision. As a leader within the group of soldiers, Kropp demonstrates a willingness to search for the wounded and confront the harsh realities of war: “He joins the search parties. We stand in a shell-hole and accuse the whole of mankind through him. He was one of the leaders” (Remarque). This quote emphasizes Kropp’s role as a moral leader within the group, defying traditional notions of hierarchy and responsibility. Nietzsche’s philosophy supports Kropp’s actions as a testament to his willingness to transcend societal constraints and act with compassion and empathy.

Nietzsche’s The Birth of Tragedy explores the interplay between the Apollonian and Dionysian forces in human existence. Kropp’s experiences in the war illustrate the profound suffering endured by soldiers, representing the Dionysian aspect. When reflecting on the war’s impact, Kropp expresses a sense of hopelessness: “The war has ruined us for everything. We were eighteen and had begun to love life and the world; and we had to shoot it to pieces” (Remarque). Kropp’s lamentation echoes Nietzsche’s understanding of the inherent tragedy of human existence, wherein the forces of destruction and chaos can overshadow the joy and beauty of life.

Through an examination of Albert Kropp’s character in All Quiet on the Western Front and the lens of Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy, we can gain valuable insights into the ethical dimensions of his actions and beliefs. Kropp’s rejection of conventional morality, his embodiment of the will to power, his potential for transcending societal norms as a leader, and his experience of the tragic aspects of war all align with Nietzsche’s philosophical concepts. Kropp’s skepticism toward the moral justifications of war reflects Nietzsche’s critique of traditional moral values. His yearning for individual autonomy and his contemplation of the power of influential figures mirror Nietzsche’s concept of the will to power. As a leader, Kropp embodies the Nietzschean idea of the Superman by transcending hierarchical structures and demonstrating compassion and empathy. Furthermore, Kropp’s experiences reflect the profound suffering and tragedy inherent in war, resonating with Nietzsche’s exploration of the Dionysian forces in human existence. Nietzsche’s philosophy offers a lens through which we can evaluate the complexities of Kropp’s ethical choices and actions, illuminating the profound impact of war on his psyche. In conclusion, All Quiet on the Western Front presents us with the character of Albert Kropp, whose ethical journey and moral dilemmas align with Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophical ideas. By evaluating Kropp’s actions and beliefs through the lens of Nietzsche’s works, we gain a deeper understanding of the ethical challenges faced by individuals in times of war and the potential for self-realization and transcendence. Through the juxtaposition of Remarque’s novel and Nietzsche’s philosophy, we are reminded of the profound influence of war on the human condition and the complexities of moral decision-making in extreme circumstances.