The Shell Shock of War in Rebecca West’s The Return of the Soldier

Abstract

This article examines the physical and psychological effects of war, such as injuries, mental health disorders, and environmental destruction. This study analyses Rebecca West’s The Return of the Soldier to explore the depiction of shell shock. Treating shell shock effectively requires fostering understanding and support in familial and societal contexts. Rebecca West's novel provides deep insights into the psychological impact of war, underlining the necessity of holistic approaches to address mental health issues in conflict-affected individuals. The interdisciplinary analysis traces the evolution of shell shock treatment from historical practices to modern approaches, revealing valuable insights through the integration of diverse disciplines as demonstrated in West’s novel. The study concludes by showing how an interdisciplinary approach to shell shock generates new perspectives and strategies regarding its history, significance, and connection to modern mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).