Georges Darien
Les vrais sous-offs: Réponse à M. Descaves
"Les vrais sous-offs: Réponse à M. Descaves" by Georges Darien and Édouard Dubus is a polemical work written in the late 19th century. This book takes the form of a critique and defense against the negative portrayal of sous-officiers (non-commissioned officers) in the military depicted in Lucien Descaves's novel "Sous-Offs." It addresses issues of loyalty, honor, and the tragic misconceptions regarding the character and morals of those serving in the army. The authors respond to Descaves’s accusations by providing a counter-narrative that emphasizes the bravery, dedication, and integrity of sous-officiers throughout French military history. They draw upon historical examples of heroism to illustrate their points and defend the military honor against what they perceive as slanderous claims. The text is rich in patriotic sentiment, aiming both to vindicate the reputation of the French military and to encourage national pride by highlighting the valiant contributions of lower-ranked soldiers in combat situations. Overall, the book serves as a spirited defense of military values amidst contemporary societal criticisms.