Meaning: The quote "Of course no one thought of anything except of attacking the enemy. It lies in the instinct of every German to rush at the enemy wherever he meets him, particularly if he meets hostile cavalry," by Manfred Richthofen, the renowned World War I aviator, reflects a mindset prevalent during the war. Manfred Richthofen, also known as the "Red Baron," was a highly skilled and successful fighter pilot, credited with 80 air combat victories. As a German military leader during World War I, Richthofen's quote encapsulates the aggressive and combative nature of warfare during that time, particularly from the German perspective.

The quote underscores the intense focus on combat and the instinctual drive towards aggression that was pervasive among soldiers during World War I. It highlights the single-minded determination to engage and defeat the enemy, without distraction or hesitation. Richthofen's mention of the instinct of every German to rush at the enemy reflects the prevailing martial culture of the time, which placed a high value on bravery, courage, and the aggressive pursuit of victory on the battlefield.

The emphasis on attacking the enemy and the specific mention of hostile cavalry also provides insight into the tactical considerations and challenges faced during the war. Cavalry units were still in use during World War I, albeit to a lesser extent than in previous conflicts. The presence of hostile cavalry posed a significant threat, and the need to confront and neutralize this threat was a crucial aspect of military strategy.

Richthofen's quote also sheds light on the national identity and martial ethos of the German military during World War I. The notion that it lies in the instinct of every German to rush at the enemy reflects a sense of national pride and a deeply ingrained warrior ethos within the German military culture. This sentiment aligns with the broader cultural and historical context of German militarism and the tradition of disciplined, aggressive military action.

Moreover, the quote captures the fervor and intensity of combat during World War I, a conflict characterized by its brutal and unrelenting nature. The trench warfare, technological advancements in weaponry, and the scale of destruction all contributed to an environment where the instinct to attack the enemy was paramount. The relentless and often harrowing nature of the war further underscores the significance of the mindset expressed in Richthofen's quote.

In summary, Manfred Richthofen's quote encapsulates the aggressive and focused mindset prevalent among German military personnel during World War I. It offers valuable insights into the prevailing attitudes towards combat, the tactical challenges faced on the battlefield, and the broader martial culture of the time. Richthofen's experiences as a highly successful aviator and military leader provide added weight to his observations, making this quote a compelling window into the mindset of soldiers during World War I.