Journey's End
Journey's End
Book Brief
316
Play • Fiction
World War I Trenches • 1910s
1928
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Journey's End by R.C. Sherriff follows British soldiers led by Captain Stanhope, who faces the grim reality of war and personal struggles, as they prepare for Germany's last major offensive in WWI; themes include courage, innocence, and mortality. The play vividly portrays life in the trenches and explores the psychological toll of warfare on the soldiers.
Dark
Suspenseful
Melancholic
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
5,141 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
R.C. Sherriff's Journey's End is hailed for its raw depiction of WWI trench life and strong character development, particularly that of Captain Stanhope. Critics commend its emotional depth and realism but note its heavy, somber tone could be off-putting for some readers. The play's concise dialogue and suspenseful atmosphere are both praised and criticized for their intensity.
Who Should Read Journey's End?
A reader who would enjoy R.C. Sherriff's Journey's End is typically interested in historical dramas, particularly those centered on World War I. This individual appreciates character-driven narratives and psychological depth, akin to All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque and Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks, exploring themes of bravery, camaraderie, and the harsh realities of war.
5,141 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Journey's End was inspired by R.C. Sherriff's own experiences as a captain during World War I, providing a starkly realistic portrayal of life in the trenches.
When Journey's End premiered in 1928, Laurence Olivier, then an up-and-coming actor, played the role of Captain Stanhope, which was his first major success on the London stage.
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The play was initially rejected by many producers due to its somber subject matter but went on to be a major hit, leading to numerous revivals and adaptations, including films and radio broadcasts.
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316
Play • Fiction
World War I Trenches • 1910s
1928
Adult
18+ years
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