MovieChat Forums > All Quiet on the Western Front (1979) Discussion > Himmelstoss turns vicious

Himmelstoss turns vicious

posted 9 years ago by jeffyoung1
1 reply | jump to latest

Himmelstoss is a puzzle. At the beginning of the Second Company's basic training, he appears to be an okay drill sergeant, teaching the young men the basics of soldiering. He remembers this is the same bunch of high school kids who teased him in the town square but they didn't hurt him except to embarrass or annoy him. In the beginning, it seems like Himmelstoss doesn't hold a grudge, but in fact he does. Apparently, Himmelstoss's resentment re-appears and boils up, making him vicious and start to abuse the young recruits far, far more than they did to him.

That's the mystery. The recruits did nothing to stir up Himmelstoss's resentment. It happened all on his own. Himmelstoss eventually goes too far with another company and is sent to the front as a corporal. At first afraid as a new soldier, he gains his wits and actually earns a commendation. At the movie's end we learn from Paul, writing a letter to Albert, that Himmelstoss was killed in action.

Lastly, Himmelstoss may have had a small man's complex. Strange, that for a German, he should be so short, probably 5'4" or 5'5", standing next to Paul Baumer (Richard Thomas) who is 5'8-1/2" tall.

[–] red-rob 8 years ago

Not so mysterious, I think, if you try to see it from his point-of-view.

He was a middle-aged man from a humble background. He'd not had much in the way of educational opportunities, but was proud of his military service and role with the Postal Service. Here were these arrogant, stuck-up young pups, though, not showing him the respect he felt he was due (and were we supposed to conclude that was a one-off in the town square, or had it been going on for months?).

Now, he finds himself with some power over them, and is determined to sho them he's not someone to be trifled with. He starts out slowly, but gradually grows more confident in his power, ending up going too far.

Bit of speculation there, and it's a long time since I read the book, but that's my take on his character.

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