Kipling's Barrack-Room Ballads: A Call to Duty and Honor

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Rudyard Kipling, a renowned British author, penned three impactful poems - Young British Soldier, Tommy, and Gunga Din - which were all included in a collection known as the Barrack-Room Ballads. These poems were written in a Cockney dialect, aiming to rally support for the British military during the tumultuous World Wars, particularly from the lower-class populace. Kipling's words were strategically crafted to convey a sense of duty and honor to the public, emphasizing the importance of financial backing for the war efforts.

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It was believed that by showing support for the fighting, individuals could exhibit their loyalty to the cause and their country, contributing to the greater good.

Considered by many as propaganda, Kipling's poems successfully conveyed their intended messages to the masses. They instilled a sense of eagerness among individuals to fulfill their duty and honor by not only donating money but also by enlisting young men to join the army. As a result, there was a significant increase in cash flow, leading to the recruitment of fresh soldiers from diverse social classes.

Moreover, these poems played a crucial role in boosting morale and reinforcing a sense of duty among the soldiers serving in the military.

Tommy, one of Kipling's poems, sheds light on the challenges faced by soldiers, particularly in terms of the discrimination they encountered in local establishments due to their social status. Despite defending the British Empire, these soldiers were often subjected to ridicule and mistreatment because of their humble origins in the class hierarchy. Similarly, Gunga Din delves into issues of race, portraying the titular character as an Indian water boy who is viewed as a lowly servant by British soldiers.

However, when Gunga Din displays courage on the battlefield, he earns respect despite the prejudice he faces due to his dark skin tone.

Another poignant piece by Kipling, The Young British Soldier, narrates the harrowing experiences of a soldier in the Afghan Wars. The poem highlights the expectations of duty and honor placed upon young British soldiers, juxtaposed with the brutal realities they face in combat. The Afghan Wars, marked by the loss of twelve thousand British soldiers, were deemed a disaster for Britain, earning the moniker "Auckland's Folly." Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Kipling captures the essence of the soldier's plight, showcasing the sacrifices made in the name of duty.

Undoubtedly, Kipling's poems left a lasting impact on the British public, serving as a rallying cry for financial support and recruitment for the military. While these verses helped alleviate the financial burdens of war, they also provided solace to soldiers facing the grim specter of death on the battlefield. Chanted with pride, Kipling's poems served as a source of inspiration and camaraderie, uniting individuals in a shared sense of duty and sacrifice.