Theirs not to make reply,
Theirs not to reason why,
Theirs but to do and die.
Into the valley of Death
Rode the six hundred.

This passage from Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem "The Charge of the Light Brigade" captures the unwavering obedience and stoic resolve of the soldiers. The repetition of "Theirs not to" underscores the soldiers' lack of agency in questioning orders; their duty is solely to act, regardless of consequences. This unquestioning loyalty is emphasized by the stark statement "but to do and die," illustrating the ultimate sacrifice expected of them. The phrase "valley of Death" evokes a vivid, almost biblical image of the perilous battlefield they enter, heightening the sense of impending doom. Tennyson highlights the soldiers' bravery and the tragic futility of their charge, ultimately offering a critique of military command structures that prioritize discipline over human life. This quote remains significant for its portrayal of the courage and tragedy inherent in warfare.