Prejudice is a key theme in the play, with multiple characters exhibiting biases against various groups. Wykowski is the most overt, openly expressing his negative views about Jews and African-Americans. His prejudice against Jews is more pronounced because Jewish soldiers are part of the company, providing Wykowski with a direct target for his biases. In contrast, during the early 1940s, the military was segregated, so there were no African-American privates present to provoke racial slurs. A brief conversation underscores the segregation in the U.S. military and the soldiers' perspectives on it. When Hennesey claims to be “Half mick, half nigger,” Selridge protests, “You can't be colored. They wouldn't let you in with us.” Wykowski quickly jumps in, saying, “... I guessed it. It was something I couldn't put my finger on but I knew something was wrong with you.” At this point, Hennesey admits he was lying to test Wykowski's genuine feelings.

Anti-Semitism is another recurring theme in the play. Wykowski clings to stereotypes about Jews. When Arnold wins Eugene's “fantasy” game and the prize money, Wykowski comments, “It never fails. It's always the Jews who end up with the money.” Wykowski insists that his derogatory language is inconsequential. As he tells Hennesey, “Where I come from we're all polacks, dagos, niggers and sheenies. That stuff doesn't mean crap to me. You're a mick, what do I care?” Other soldiers also display prejudice. Those who refuse to flush the toilets Arnold has just cleaned call him a “New York Jew Kike.”

Even Eugene is guilty of holding prejudices. In his notebook, he privately expresses skepticism about Arnold. Despite regarding Arnold highly, describing him as “the most complex and fascinating man I've ever met,” Eugene still harbors suspicion toward Arnold because he suspects him of being gay.

Ironically, the harsh Toomey demands that his men avoid expressing prejudice, even though he himself uses stereotypes. He warns the company, “If I hear any more racial slurs from this platoon, some dumb bastard is going to be shoveling cow s—t.... Especially if I hear it from a Polack!”

Simon emphasizes the perceived distinctiveness of Jews in a predominantly Christian-American environment. Through the character of Arnold Epstein, Simon presents a figure that reflects a common American stereotype of Jewish individuals. Arnold is portrayed as an intellectual from New York City, who is physically weak and often plagued by illness. He frequently voices complaints about his digestion, overall health, and the food served. Even those around him who do not openly display anti-Semitic attitudes reveal their lack of familiarity with Jewish people. As Selridge mentions, ‘‘I never met a Jew before the army.’’ This statement highlights the minority status of Jews in America.

Biloxi Blues presents military life with a humorous twist, often exaggerating its challenges, especially through the character of Sergeant Toomey and his cruel behavior. Despite the comedic elements, the play uncovers authentic insights into military life and the experiences of young recruits. On a basic level, it accurately portrays certain aspects, like the unappealing food and the confined living quarters. The privates quickly form connections, although these relationships might not last. More importantly, the play emphasizes the changes the soldiers experience as they adjust to army life. Through their training, Eugene and his fellow soldiers experience significant personal growth.

For Eugene, army training symbolizes his transition into adulthood. Two of his personal ambitions suggest his impending transformation. He dreams of becoming a writer, implying he needs to experience considerable personal growth, and he wants to lose his virginity. In the army, Eugene accomplishes both goals. He has a sexual experience with...