* The Nature of War and its Impact on Humanity: Scliar uses the story of the small, isolated town of "Peace" and its sudden immersion in war to examine the devastating effects of conflict on individuals and societies. It explores how war can turn neighbors into enemies, erode trust and morality, and lead to unimaginable acts of violence.
* The Search for Meaning and Purpose: In the face of war's brutality, the characters grapple with existential questions about the meaning of life and the purpose of their existence.
* The Power of Memory and History: Scliar uses flashbacks and narratives about the past to emphasize how history shapes the present and how the echoes of past conflicts influence individuals' actions and choices.
* The Role of Imagination and Fantasy: The novel incorporates elements of fantasy and absurdity to highlight the surreal and disorienting nature of war and the ways in which it can distort reality. The character of "War," who embodies the destructive forces of conflict, is a prime example of this.
* The Importance of Hope and Resistance: Despite the bleakness of war, the novel also emphasizes the importance of resistance, the enduring power of human spirit, and the possibility of finding hope even in the darkest of times.
Ultimately, "Peace and War" can be seen as a cautionary tale about the dangers of war and a powerful exploration of the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion.