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Young officer instructed to dance, 1918
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Young officer instructed to dance, 1918
Illustration from the Letters of Eve column in The Tatler showing a young subaltern being told to dance (in no uncertain terms) by his commanding officer, Colonel Firebrand! Date: 1918
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Media ID 14146554
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Colonel Commanding Dances Letters Subaltern Officers
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This illustration hails from the Letters of Eve column in The Tatler, published in 1918, and depicts a young subaltern being instructed to dance with unyielding determination by his commanding officer, Colonel Firebrand. The First World War was not only a time of conflict and hardship, but also a period of unexpected social encounters and traditions. During the war, soldiers were granted occasional leaves to enjoy moments of respite from the frontlines. Social events, such as dances, became an essential part of their recreational activities. However, these events were not just about entertainment; they served as opportunities for officers to mingle with high society, build connections, and maintain morale. In this illustration, the young subaltern, clad in his military uniform, appears hesitant and perhaps even uncomfortable as he stands awkwardly, while Colonel Firebrand, an imposing figure with a stern expression, insists that he take part in the dance. The subaltern's fellow officers look on with amusement, adding to the young man's embarrassment. This scene encapsulates the unique blend of military discipline and social conventions that characterized the lives of soldiers during the First World War. Despite the challenges and hardships they faced, moments of levity and camaraderie were cherished, even if they came with a bit of coercion from their commanding officers.
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