In Timothy Findley’s The Wars, the lives of animals’ shape Robert Ross’s identity in the war by creating his sense of morality. This leads Robert to value dehumanization and reject faith in humanity. Valuing dehumanization is often counterintuitive because we typically see it as a negative thing. However, it can be portrayed as a positive. dehumanization in a positive sense can be used to describe the alternative, life-affirming value-system that Robert learns from animals. Traditionally Valuing dehumanization is also counterintuitive because the traditional outlook is to see humans as superior to animals and to put intelligence above that of animals. Yet, the novel shows that animals are not only equal but superior through Robert’s experiences. The moral value of dehumanization is portrayed through Robert’s valuing of instinct and life, innocence, and belonging. Throughout The Wars, the rejection of faith in humanity for its immorality is demonstrated through the violence and destruction of war. Animal instincts are what have kept Robert alive during the war more than anything. There are numerous occasions when Robert knows something bad is about to happen simply because of animals reacting: “It was odd. Robert looked up. There should have been birds… Then he heard a rush of wings. Something exploded… Robert ducked as a whoosh of air threw him forward” (179). Robert can prepare himself for the dangers ahead simply by paying attention to the animals surrounding him. And
