The Things They Carried

What is the role of women in the book "The Things They Carried?"

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Women take on different roles in the book. First there is the Sweetheart of the Tra Bong who's real name was Mary Anne. She was the girlfriend of a soldier who shipped her over to be with him. Because of her exposure to the war, and the harsh reality of killing, she changes from a sweet, innocent blonde, to a killing machine, who wears human tongues as necklaces.

Other women, such as Martha, symbolize things left behind, dreams not realized, or unattainable goals.

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The Things They Carried