The Centurions, written by Jean Lartéguy, is a gripping story of the French Foreign Legion. It follows a group of Legionnaires, known as the Centurions, as they serve in various areas of French Indochina during the 1950s. The novel follows various characters, but primarily focuses on the legendary Docteur Faustin, who takes command of the Centurions to lead them against battles against the enemy.
The novel begins in the 1950s and follows the French struggle against the native Hoa Hao and Binh Xuyen forces in the Mekong Delta. There is a great deal of struggle and loss of life, but the Centurions are always there to carry on. The novel follows the personal stories of several of the characters, revealing their motivations, strengths and weaknesses, and the bond of comradeship that binds them together.
Docteur Faustin begins as a medical officer in the French Army, but he quickly volunteers for the Legion and is posted to the Mekong Delta in French Indochina. Along the way, his commanding officers recognize his courage and ability and promote him to legionnaire equal of rank. Later, Faustin is promoted to Capitaine and given command of the Centurions, a unit of elite foreign legionnaires.
Faustin and the Centurions are sent on various increasingly difficult missions against the enemy. Throughout the novel, they engage in thrilling battles and comical relief, while they grapple with the moral complexity of their situation. The ultimate goal of the novel is to showcase the ways in which the French Foreign Legionnaires fight, think, and live while defending their country’s interests in a hostile land.
The novel is perhaps most remembered for its vivid descriptions of battle, but it also shines in its characterizations. Throughout the novel, the reader becomes familiar with the characters and the hardships they face in battle, their loyalty and courage in the face of adversity, and the bonds that unite them in their mission. They take a great deal of damage throughout their campaign, but ultimately the Centurions are able to achieve near-legendary status and a remarkable victory.
The Centurions is an often overlooked classic of French literature. It is a gripping read, full of action, vivid characters, and meaningful themes. The novel provides an insightful look at the motivations and beliefs of French Foreign Legionnaires and the challenges they faced in a hostile land. Ultimately, The Centurions is a must-read for those interested in military history and the courage of foreign legionnaires.
