The Virtual Coffeehouse

Teufelsdröckh questions the use and purpose of war. In his description of one town’s small army, he seems to mock the entire idea. He discusses how the town takes on the responsibility of training, feeding, and clothing the soldiers. After this process is complete, the soldiers are sent to a foreign country to kill opposing soldiers with whom they have no personal conflict.

In conclusion, Teufelsdröckh deems war as an excuse for country leaders. The leaders of opposing countries keep “blood-filled trenches” between them in order to avoid having to face their issues directly.