Lay Down Your Arms: The Autobiography of Martha von Tilling

"Lay Down Your Arms: The Autobiography of Martha von Tilling" by Bertha von Suttner, recounts the journey of a woman coming to terms with the brutality of war in the late 1800s. The story follows Martha, a general's daughter, whose initial fascination with the romantic ideas of war is challenged by the harsh realities she faces when becomes a solider's wife. Her youthful dreams of heroism and valor confront the painful realities of battle, leading to the loss of loved ones and a growing sense of disillusionment towards the glorified image of war. Through her diaries, Martha reflects on her past, her marriage, and her changing beliefs, offering a powerful critique and personal insights into the moral complexities of armed conflict. The story is a reflection on conflict, personal transformation, and the search for peace during times of intense devastation.