Thomas Keneally's "The Daughters of Mars" is a historical novel that explores the experiences of two Australian sisters, Naomi and Sally Durance, who become nurses during World War I. The novel is set in the period between the Gallipoli Campaign of 1915 and the Battle of the Somme in 1916. Through the sisters' eyes, Keneally depicts the brutality, horror, and futility of war while also exploring the themes of family, love, and sacrifice.One of the key strengths of the novel is its vivid and realistic portrayal of the war. Keneally's descriptions of the battlefield and the injuries sustained by soldiers are graphic and visceral, conveying the sense of horror and chaos that characterized World War I. The author's meticulous research is evident in the detailed descriptions of the medical procedures and nursing practices of the time, as well as the military hierarchy and bureaucracy.The novel also offers a nuanced portrayal of the soldiers and nurses who fought and cared for them. Keneally does not shy away from depicting the flaws and contradictions of his characters, making them human and relatable. The Durance sisters, for example, are not presented as flawless heroines, but as complex individuals with their own fears, desires, and doubts. Similarly, the soldiers they care for are not just faceless casualties but individuals with their own personalities and stories.Another strength of the novel is its exploration of family dynamics and the impact of war on relationships. The Durance sisters' experiences as nurses allow them to develop a closer bond and gain a new understanding of each other. However, their experiences also strain their relationships with their father, who disapproves of their decision to become nurses, and with their respective love interests. The novel also explores the impact of war on romantic relationships, as soldiers and nurses struggle to maintain their connections in the face of physical and emotional trauma.Throughout the novel, Keneally also explores the theme of sacrifice. The Durance sisters and their fellow nurses must make sacrifices in order to care for the soldiers, often at great personal cost. Similarly, the soldiers who fight and die on the battlefield make the ultimate sacrifice for their country. However, Keneally also questions the value of sacrifice and the morality of war, highlighting the senseless loss of life and the devastating impact of war on individuals and society.One of the few weaknesses of the novel is its pacing. At times, the narrative feels slow and meandering, with lengthy descriptions of medical procedures and military bureaucracy that may not be of interest to all readers. However, Keneally's prose is evocative and poetic, making even the most mundane details come alive.In conclusion, "The Daughters of Mars" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the impact of war on individuals and society. Through the experiences of the Durance sisters and their fellow nurses, Keneally offers a realistic and nuanced portrayal of the horrors and sacrifices of World War I. While the novel may not be for everyone, its vivid descriptions, complex characters, and exploration of timeless themes make it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction or the human cost of war.
