“…repeatedly presses for more dangerous assignments.”
His wish is granted – eventually winding up in one of the most dangerous posts possible, artillery observer supporting front-line infantry.”
Sebastian continues.
“Wittgenstein is in this dangerous role during Russia’s greatest success of the war – the Brusilov Offensive, which leaves 440,000 of the victorious Russians dead or wounded – and 567,000 Austrians dead or wounded, with another 408,000 taken prisoner.
There are very high casualties as Wittgenstein’s company barely repulses the Russian shock attacks attempting to overwhelm their position.
He is promoted again after the battle, and receives numerous commendations. He would serve on various fronts until taken prisoner in November 1918, in the very closing days of the war.
Amidst the chaos and danger, he managed to finish the Tractatus in the summer of 1918 and send it off for publishing.The War had been the backdrop of the work.”
I took out my notebook and wrote one sentence, followed by a question I have no answer for.
Wittgenstein finished his Tractatus whilst fighting in the Great War.
WHAT’S YOUR EXCUSE?