Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence and personal freedom, provides a valuable framework for evaluating the ethics and morality of Tjaden, a soldier in Erich Maria Remarque’s novel “All Quiet on the Western Front.” Tjaden’s experiences and actions in the face of the dehumanizing environment of war, as well as a quote from William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies,” reflect the core principles of existentialism. By analyzing Tjaden’s responses to authority, his search for meaning in a chaotic world, and his unique embodiment of existentialist values, we can see that he rejects external authority, contemplates the meaning of things, and embodies individuality.

One of the key aspects of existentialism is the rejection of external authority in favor of individual freedom and responsibility. Tjaden’s resistance against authority figures like Himmelstoss demonstrates his refusal to conform to oppressive structures. By stripping Himmelstoss of his power, Tjaden symbolically defies the absurdity of a world where power and hierarchy dictate the fate of individuals. As Golding wrote in “Lord of the Flies,” “We’ve got to have rules and obey them. After all, we’re not savages.” Tjaden’s rebellion aligns with the existentialist notion of the authentic individual who questions and challenges the status quo, refusing to be reduced to a mere cog in the machinery of war.

Existentialism grapples with the inherent meaninglessness of existence and emphasizes the individual’s responsibility to create meaning in their own life. Tjaden, despite the chaos and horrors of war, is shown to ask profound questions, reflecting his search for meaning in an absurd world. In “All Quiet on the Western Front,” Tjaden ponders, “Then I haven’t any business here at all… I don’t feel myself offended.” This quote signifies his contemplation of the larger existential questions, his refusal to accept the senselessness of war, and his quest for a purpose beyond the violence and destruction.

It should be noted that existentialism emphasizes the uniqueness and individuality of each person. Tjaden’s idiosyncrasies, such as his inability to control his urine in his sleep or his insatiable appetite, serve as reminders of his distinctiveness. In a dehumanizing environment like war, Tjaden’s refusal to conform to societal expectations stands as a testament to his individuality. As Remarque wrote in “All Quiet on the Western Front,” “I laugh, if I have the heart to laugh.” Tjaden’s ability to smile even in the face of adversity reflects his refusal to let the external world dictate his internal state and his determination to assert his individuality.

Existentialism also confronts the inherent absurdity of human existence and encourages individuals to make choices despite the apparent meaninglessness of life. Tjaden’s actions, such as ambushing Himmelstoss and exposing his vulnerability, illustrate his defiance of the absurdity of war and the arbitrary power structures within it. As Golding wrote in “Lord of the Flies,” “The rules! You’re breaking the rules!” Tjaden’s audacity to challenge authority and expose the oppressive nature of hierarchical systems aligns with existentialist ideals and his rejection of a world that seeks to control and suppress individual freedom.

In the face of the horrors of war, Tjaden’s ethical evaluation draws parallels to Golding’s “Lord of the Flies,” where the boys on the island descend into savagery and abandon their moral compass. However, Tjaden resists succumbing to the darkness within himself and the dehumanizing influence of war. His rebellion against authority, his search for meaning, and his unwavering individuality become acts of resistance against the chaos and despair that permeate their existence.

Furthermore, Tjaden’s refusal to let external circumstances dictate his internal state demonstrates his ability to find solace and maintain his individuality in the face of adversity. While others succumb to despair, Tjaden’s ability to smile even in the darkest of times illustrates his refusal to let the external chaos consume his spirit. He becomes a symbol of resilience and strength, embracing his own unique qualities rather than conforming to the bleak environment surrounding him.

In conclusion, Tjaden’s ethics and morality, when evaluated through an existentialist lens, reveal a complex character driven by a rebellion against authority, a search for meaning, and an unwavering commitment to his individuality. Through his actions and attitudes, Tjaden embodies the core principles of existentialism. While his hot-headedness and rash behavior may cloud his ethical choices at times, Tjaden’s embodiment of existentialist values in the face of dehumanization and chaos makes him a compelling and morally intriguing character in Remarque’s “All Quiet on the Western Front.” Through Tjaden’s journey, we are reminded of the profound impact of existentialist philosophy in shaping individual ethics and the pursuit of authenticity in the most challenging of circumstances.