Jewishness that is portrayed through the characters of Sergeant Marx and Sheldon Grossbart.

Throughout the story, there is a recurring theme revolving around the dilemma Sergeant Marx

must face in his decision to act as either a top sergeant, Jewish man, or human being (Paterson,

136). Marx's internal quarrels, in turn, cause him to constantly question his beliefs, thus leading

him to a burdensome battle he must conquer in order to retain his faith.

As the story progresses, Roth makes use of dilemma through the main character and

protagonist, Sergeant Nathan Marx (Searles, 102). Marx's character is always in a state of

uncertainty in his numerous encounters with one of his Jewish trainees, Sheldon Grossbart. Since

Marx is also Jewish, Grossbart cunningly attempts to use this common trait as a way to receive

special privileges from Marx. Through each encounter, Marx's true character and personality are

revealed by the use of this dilemma. While Grossbart continues to gain pity for his Jewishness

from the sergeant, Marx is aware of Grossbart's sly tactics yet repeatedly gives in to his requests.

services, the other trainees feel that they are actually goofing around in order to dodge the

of preparing his men for war, he shows the reader a sympathetic quality that breaks free of his

directions pertaining to each role. In his first meeting with Marx, Grossbart is already aware of

devious and cunning nature as well. Roth's use of dilemma creates suspense for the reader and, in

man (Paterson, 136). These roles, consequently, illuminate the theme behind story. Marx's

manages to do so anyway through his obsequious nature and evil use of trickery. When Marx

Grossbart once again tries to swindle the old sergeant. In one of his final encounters with Marx,

a New Jersey base rather than be shipped off to the Pacific. Marx disagrees, but Grossbart

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1287
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)