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1. How does the author set the stage for the novel's action, in the first chapter?

The author starts the novel by talking about the various discoveries pertaining to the structure of matter, and the beginning of the atomic century. She also briefly narrates the first World War, which began in 1914 and ended in 1918, with ten million casualties worldwide.

2. How is Gunther described?

Gunther is a young German soldier, who is described as immature but large-bodied. He was raised in Bavaria, but legally a resident of Dachau.

3. Where is Gunther, at the start of the novel, and where is he going?

At the beginning of the novel, Gunther is walking the streets of Rome. He is preparing for a deployment to North Africa, and he is excited about the opportunities for heroism he anticipates there, but he is also frightened.

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