The "iron youth" in All Quiet on the Western Front refers to the way war was presented to young Germans, symbolizing strong German men. This term was part of a nationalistic campaign to enlist young people by romanticizing the war. The character Kropp rejects this label, highlighting the disillusionment and aging caused by the brutal realities of war.

The students enlisted in the army in All Quiet on the Western Front due to the patriotic fervor and intense urging from their teacher, Kantorek, who represented the older generation's misguided beliefs in the war’s glory. This generation, influenced by past victories like the Franco-Prussian War, convinced the youths to join, only for them to face brutal realities and death, highlighting the tragic manipulation and loss of young lives.

The schoolmaster Kantorek refers to his former students as "Iron Youth." Paul and Kropp scoff at the term Kantorek uses because it is incongruent with what the young soldiers have become. The word "iron" conjures up images of strength and durability, while the word "youth" conjures up images of innocence and life. Yet, Paul, Kropp, and the other soldiers are no longer the innocent, trusting youth they once were. Many of them have been physically and emotionally shattered by their war experience. The brutal violence of war has dulled their faith and enthusiasm for pretentious labels.

Paul considers the best outcome of the war to be the development of comradeship among soldiers. This esprit de corps emerges as a vital bond, providing a strong sense of unity and mutual support amidst the horrors of war. Paul emphasizes that this camaraderie is crucial for survival, helping soldiers endure the grim realities and isolation of trench warfare, and offering comfort and reassurance in the presence of fellow soldiers.

Paul Bäumer's view of the enemy shifts from an abstract mass of people to individuals. He begins to feel compassion for the enemy and finally feels nothing when they are lost.

Remarque's writing style in All Quiet on the Western Front contributes to the portrayal of war as brutal and inhumane through its emotionless, direct language and vivid imagery. His detached tone reflects the psychological numbing of soldiers, depicting war's horrors with stark simplicity. Graphic scenes, such as wounded horses, highlight the raw brutality and senselessness of war, conveying a sense of futility and dehumanization akin to Hemingway's minimalist style.

Paul considers war a "glorious time for surgeons" because it provides them with ample opportunities to practice and experiment on patients due to the numerous injuries. Surgeons often perform operations with little regard for patient comfort, sometimes appearing sadistic, as they probe wounds without anesthesia. Paul experiences this firsthand when a surgeon torments him during treatment. Additionally, surgeons exploit the situation to conduct unnecessary procedures, such as breaking feet to "fix" flat feet, highlighting their callousness.

The author is describing the desensitization and adaptation of soldiers to the harsh realities of war. The first quote highlights how soldiers become accustomed to immodest behaviors, such as relieving themselves in the open, due to the lack of privacy in war. The second quote reflects on the soldiers' heightened appreciation for life's simple pleasures, like nature and food, due to the constant threat of death, which makes each day feel precious and new.

The second part of your question is a little more difficult to answer. Remarque was not anti-war but was merely giving his opinion about the futility of war. Other novelists, like Stephen Crane and Ernest Hemingway, were pro-war (and Hemingway did serve in World War I). It is more accurate to say that Remarque was strongly against the Great War but would fight for his country if necessary.

1. Himmelstoss is a "little man," short and not particularly impressive physically. (1:6-7) 2. He wants to be seen as important and powerful, but he doesn't have the brains or ability to make himself look good in other ways. 3. He has two particular traits that have been useful in "fighting his way up" in the world: a great memory for trivia that can be applied to military regulations, and a severe revenge-driven nature when he feels insulted or disrespected. 4.