The Things They Carried Chapter 6

Questions and Answers

What was the pact that Dave Jensen and Lee Strunk made together?

If they were seriously injured, the other would kill him so they couldn't live in pain or incapacitated.

What was Lee afraid of when he saw Jensen, and what did he make him promise?

Lee was afraid that Jensen was trying to get revenge after he broke his nose. He tried his best to avoid getting near him.

Why does O'Brien reverse the traditional order of 'friends and enemies' when sequencing these chapters?

The author reverses the traditional phrase because Lee Strunk and Dave Jensen started off as enemies before their friendship evolved after the fight.

Using both chapters 'Enemies' and 'Friends,' explain how war distorts the normal social codes.

<p>War makes people go crazy and some might want their friends to kill them if they accidentally injure them in a form of revenge.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the irony of this chapter's title?

<p>The irony is that the soldiers are supposed to be fighting as a team against a common enemy, but they actually end up causing tension between themselves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pact Between Jensen and Strunk

Dave Jensen and Lee Strunk agreed that if one became severely injured, the other would ensure their death to prevent prolonged suffering.

Lee's Fear and Promises

Lee Strunk feared Dave Jensen was seeking revenge after Strunk broke Jensen's nose during their conflict.
Strunk avoided close proximity to Jensen and sought reassurance from him to prevent retaliation.

Reversal of "Friends and Enemies"

The typical sequence of "friends and enemies" is inverted in O'Brien's narrative; Jensen and Strunk began as adversaries.
The fight represented a form of apology, showcased by Jensen breaking his own nose to demonstrate goodwill.

The chapters demonstrate that wartime insanity can distort normal social behaviors.
Soldiers may perceive friendship as a threat, compelling them to wish for death if they are wounded by friends.

Irony in Chapter Title

The title's irony lies in the expectation of teamwork against a common enemy, contrasted with the interpersonal conflicts and tensions that arise among the soldiers.

Description

Explore Chapter 6 of 'The Things They Carried' through flashcards that delve into the pact between Dave Jensen and Lee Strunk, showcasing their complex friendship and the fears that accompany them. This quiz helps reinforce key themes and character dynamics from the chapter.