How does Norman Beim use imagery in The Deserter?

The play's three main themes—desertion, cowardice, and religious beliefs during war—all combine to create a strong antiwar message. The soldier's descriptions of the horrors of war, coupled with his open and honest desire to survive and take care of his family, help to justify his actions and condemn war.

The play takes place during the final months of World War II. The sergeant notes this fact at one point: "The war's almost over. A couple more months. That's all that's left." The fact that the soldier is executed so close to the end of a war that has already claimed the lives of countless American servicemen makes the soldier's death seem like even more of a waste. Since the Germans are almost beaten and the war is almost over, the soldier has a greater chance of surviving the fighting and returning home. However, his death sentence prevents this from happening. The action takes place during winter, which is also important to the play. Winter is traditionally associated with death, so it underscores the tragic qualities of the play. In addition, the deserted chateau where the play takes place seems death-like in its use of props, which include cloth-covered windows and furniture. These props give the setting a dark, dismal appearance, which further underscores the tragedy of the soldier's death.