In his exploration of warfare, Lawrence found that while acts of bravery can arise in the chaos of battle, the overall experience of war is fundamentally destructive to the idea of heroism. The persistent violence and suffering faced by soldiers dilute the glorified image of heroism often portrayed in stories. Instead of valor, the reality is one of ongoing brutality that challenges the concept of leading a noble and heroic life.

Lawrence's insights highlight a significant contradiction: the romanticized notions of heroism conflict with the relentless and harsh truths of combat. He suggests that the true nature of war strips away the ideals of valor, leaving individuals to confront the grim realities of survival amid daily atrocities, which often leads to a deeper understanding of humanity stripped of its glory.