Can “The Things They Carried” be considered a patriotic novel?

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Selected thesis

“The Things They Carried” should be considered a patriotic novel.

Pros

Cons

  • Pro claim 1

    The novel stirringly portrays the American soldiers’ camaraderie and self-sacrifice.

  • Pro claim 2

    The novel prompts the reader to reflect on the nature of patriotism.

  • Con claim 1

    Few of the novel's characters seem overtly patriotic.

  • Con claim 2

    The novel seems critical of America’s involvement in the Vietnam War.