Honor and Duty

In 1917, the class system was far more rigid than in modern times and everyone was expected to behave according to the rules of their class. For the upper classes, duty and honor were held in the highest regard.

Even though Philip is in love with Eleanor, he marries Rosemary out of a sense of duty. He has arranged to marry her and he can't back out now. This is extremely painful for Eleanor but as Philip sees it, he is powerless to act in any other manner. Philip doesn't do this grudgingly- he treats Rosemary well and with respect. He could not imagine doing otherwise. Though his mind is on Eleanor while he is in France, Philip dutifully sends letters home to his wife Rosemary.

On the battlefield, Philip comes to the conclusion that the only reason for the war is honor and this stops making...