Faith and Superstition in the Trenches

Peter returns to the branch, having previously presented 'Coping with Death in the Trenches' in July 2024, a fascinating talk based on his book, 'Glum Heroes: Hardship, Fear and Death – Resilience and Coping'.

This talk focuses on the role of faith and superstition during the war in enabling soldiers to have a sense of control over their destinies and to mitigate stress. It examines the Anglican church's attitude to the war, and the ordinary soldier's attitude to the church, both at home and on the battlefield. It also looks at how religion and superstition intertwined on the battlefield, and how the waning prevalence of witchcraft in British culture laid the basis of how superstition and spiritualism flourished on the home front.

Peter is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, with an MA (2006) in First World War Studies at Birmingham University, and a PhD (2013) with the subject of Infantry Battalion Commanders. His professional life has largely centred around trauma and sudden violent death, and heavily influences much of his research, particularly his book 'Glum Heroes'. The author of nine books, and a range or articles on the war, many in 'Stand To!', Peter was elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society in 2025.

Members and non-members of The Western Front Association are equally welcome. Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.

Main Image: G A Suddert Kennedy MC aka 'Woodbine Willie'.