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Motivations and Identities of Soldiers
This chapter examines the complex motivations behind soldiering during the Thirty Years War, focusing on mercenaries and their dual identity as both laborers and moral agents. It analyzes the social dynamics between soldiers and civilians, revealing how stereotypes and relationships influenced perceptions of military service. Furthermore, the discussion highlights the patterns of violence in male-dominated environments, critiquing historical narratives about brutality and emphasizing the role of social networks in conflict.