Here's why Etaples is significant in the novel:
* Setting: The story unfolds largely in Etaples. It's where Tommo Peaceful and his brother Charlie are stationed before being sent to the front lines.
* Symbol of War's Harsh Reality: Etaples represents the bleak and chaotic reality of war for soldiers. The camp is overcrowded, unsanitary, and filled with fear and uncertainty.
* Contrast with Home: Etaples is a stark contrast to the idyllic English countryside where Tommo grew up. This contrast emphasizes the devastating impact war has on the lives of soldiers.
* Loss of Innocence: Tommo's experiences in Etaples contribute to his loss of innocence. He witnesses violence, death, and the harsh realities of war, transforming him from a naive boy into a hardened soldier.
Overall, Etaples serves as a powerful symbol of the suffering and deprivation endured by soldiers during World War I, providing a backdrop to Tommo's journey of coming of age amidst the horrors of war.