Despite differing opinions of war, it is evident throughout history that conflict leaves many soldiers with both physical and mental suffering. Through investigating this psychological trauma, known as post-traumatic stress disorder, Pat Barker and Tim O’Brien are able to illustrate the negative impact that war has on soldiers as a result of horrific experiences. Although Regeneration and In the Lake of the Woods are centered on wars fought 50 years apart, they each encourage their readers to contemplate the reality of war and to comprehend the mental challenge that soldiers face once returned
