The Things They Carried- Thesis

Tim O'Briens book, The Things They Carried, provides valuable insight into the minds of soldiers, and enlightens us to the emotional and psychological costs of war. Specifically or stories of Mary Anne, the baby water buffalo, and the chapter "Speaking of Courage" help us to relate the metamorphosis that soldiers undergo.

The Artifacts

Many different kinds of artifacts were mentioned in the article by Sturken, some of them being things such as, lighters, pictures, and even condoms. It was a way for soldiers to try and keep a connection and memory of home and family. Since back then most of soldiers  did not even know why they were even fighting for. Similarly to The Things They Carried the artifacts that they brought along with them were also used as constant reminders of a time where there was peace and love, as well as they were appreciated as individuals.