What did people think World War 1 was like?

At the outset, many people believed World War I would be a short and glorious conflict, characterized by heroism and quick victories. This perception was fueled by nationalism and romantic notions of war, as soldiers and citizens anticipated a chance to demonstrate bravery and patriotism. However, as the war dragged on, the brutal realities of trench warfare, massive casualties, and the horrors of modern weaponry shattered those ideals, leading to widespread disillusionment and trauma among both soldiers and civilians. Ultimately, the war was seen as a devastating and transformative event, reshaping perceptions of conflict and its impacts on society.