All Quiet on the Western Front

Main Characters and Their Development

• Paul Bäumer - the main character and narrator. At the beginning of the book, he is full of patriotic feelings and ideals, but as he faces the horrors of war, his views change. He becomes more cynical and disillusioned, losing faith in the older generations and their ideals.
• Stanislaus Katczinsky (Kat) - Paul's senior comrade, an experienced soldier who becomes his mentor and friend. Kat is known for his resourcefulness and ability to scavenge food and other necessities. His death is a heavy blow to Paul.
• Albert Kropp - Paul's classmate and one of his closest friends on the front. He is intelligent and philosophically inclined, often pondering the meaning of war and life. After being wounded and having his leg amputated, he loses hope and the will to live.
• Müller - another of Paul's classmates who dreams of the future and studying after the war. He often talks about his plans and textbooks but ultimately dies on the front.
• Tjaden - a soldier from Paul's company, known for his rebellious spirit and hatred of military discipline. He endures many hardships but maintains his cheerfulness and humor.
• Leer - Paul's classmate, characterized by his cynicism and love for women. He also dies on the front, highlighting the senselessness and brutality of war.
• Franz Kemmerich - a friend of Paul who dies early in the book from a wound. His death is the first serious shock for Paul and his friends, forcing them to realize the reality of war.
• Himmelstoss - a former postman turned cruel and despotic non-commissioned officer. He bullies the recruits, but on the front, his cruelty and cowardice become apparent. Eventually, he tries to redeem himself by helping the soldiers.