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Duration 2:30

The Great War: Try and get yourself a bit of kip

Soldiering is described as being a bit boring! Henry explains how a lot of time is spent doing little or nothing. He tells us that the main action is at night including: raids, patrols, and movement of supplies, repairs. Henry tells us how soldiers can use their spare time. His advice is to get some sleep if possible.

Context

This clip is one of fourteen clips in which actor John Gregor recreates a Great War soldier called Henry Fairhurst of the Barnsley Pals. Here he describes his spare time.

Interesting or important points about the film

In all of these clips of Henry Fairhurst it is important to be aware that the actor is reconstructing a character from the past. He is using original source material and other research to create what he thinks is a plausible reconstruction of the thoughts and views of a private in the Barnsley Pals. When watching each clip it is important that viewers consider whether they feel the information given is accurate, but much more importantly whether they feel the tone and emphasis the actor gives to particular issues is in line with their own reading of the evidence from the time.