Storm of Steel by Ernst Junger is lauded for its vivid, unflinching portrayal of World War I, offering a soldier's raw and compelling perspective. Positive reviews highlight its literary craftsmanship and historical value. However, some criticize its glorification of war and lack of deeper moral contemplation. Overall, it remains a significant, albeit controversial, war memoir.

Readers who appreciate the visceral and personal recounting of war will find Storm of Steel by Ernst Jünger compelling. This memoir, akin to Remarque's All Quiet on the Western Front, is ideal for those interested in intense, firsthand WWI narratives, historical authenticity, and philosophical reflections on conflict and bravery.

Storm of Steel by Ernst Jünger is a memoir that vividly recounts his experiences as a German officer on the Western Front during World War I. The narrative begins with Jünger's arrival in France in December 1914 and follows him through numerous battles, describing the harsh conditions, constant artillery, and the profound fear of death. As Jünger leads his men, he witnesses the destruction of villages and the suffering of both soldiers and civilians. Despite gaining multiple injuries and medals for bravery, the memoir ends with Jünger being gravely wounded and returning to Germany, marking the end of his active participation in the war. The book includes graphic depictions of violence and death.

Gritty / Dark / Suspenseful / Contemplative / Challenging

- Storm of Steel by Ernst Jünger is notable for its lack of overt moralizing, offering a vivid and gripping personal account of World War I, which has drawn both praise and controversy for its detached tone.
- Despite being originally published in 1920, Jünger revised Storm of Steel several times, with the author making changes that reflected his evolving views and experiences over the years.
- Ernst Jünger, who wrote Storm of Steel, lived to be 102 years old and was awarded numerous honors during his lifetime, including the prestigious Pour le Mérite for his military service.

Ernst Junger

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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Storm of Steel Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1 Storm of Steel Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2 Storm of Steel Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 Storm of Steel Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4 Storm of Steel Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 5 Storm of Steel Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 6 Storm of Steel Chapter 6 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 7 Storm of Steel Chapter 7 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 8 Storm of Steel Chapter 8 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 9 Storm of Steel Chapter 9 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 10 Storm of Steel Chapter 10 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 11 Storm of Steel Chapter 11 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 12 Storm of Steel Chapter 12 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 13 Storm of Steel Chapter 13 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 14 Storm of Steel Chapter 14 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 15 Storm of Steel Chapter 15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-17

Storm of Steel Chapters 16-17 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 18 Storm of Steel Chapter 18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-20

Storm of Steel Chapters 19-20 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Storm of Steel Key Figures

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Themes

Storm of Steel Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Storm of Steel Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Storm of Steel Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Storm of Steel Essay Topics

Storm of Steel

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Storm of Steel?

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Book Details