Symbolism · English Literature

In Jean Giraudoux's play 'The Trojan War Will Not Take Place', the literal 'Gates of War' that fail to close at the end symbolize:

  1. The poor mechanical maintenance of ancient city fortifications
  2. The futility of human diplomacy against the irrational collective momentum toward war
  3. The triumph of progressive peace treaties over ancient blood feuds
  4. The financial trade agreements established between Mediterranean powers
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Correct answer: The futility of human diplomacy against the irrational collective momentum toward war

Despite Hector's best, rational efforts to prevent war through diplomatic compromises, the Gates of War open anyway. This failure symbolizes the terrifying idea that war operates on an absurd, inevitable momentum that overrides human logic and individual desire.

Difficulty: Medium Question 12 of 13

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