The first world war is often referred to as the first machine war. lorries and tractors were used to pull the weaponry required for trench warfare and tanks were also invented taken from the idea of the steam tractor which introduced 'mechanized warfare'.

airplanes also started to be used for the first time carrying bombs and performing reconnaissance in place of cavalry which used to be 'the eyes of the army'. most casualties were caused by heavy artillery and machine guns which were being used on a large scale for the first time.

there was even an art movement called futurism which depicted the war in the with emphasis on machines even men were mad angular like parts of machines they operated.

an example of futurism showing men returning to the trenches like a train.

knowing about the machinery in the war is useful to the devising process as it allows us to see what the men would have been working with and how we could make it physical on stage. images like this are very abstract and are helpful as they show the war in a different experimental light.

communication

During the great war communication was vital whether it was between soldiers and their families or planes and ships. however all communication regarding the war and tactics had to be very closely guarded so it wouldn't fall into the wrong hands. many different techniques were used including:

• telephones
• radio
• letters
• visual communication
• pigeons 
• Morse code

fashion in world war one

During world war one womens fashion changed dramatically, with a lack of fabric and money people had to 'make do and mend' patches on clothing became a common site and fashion became more practical and some what mere masculine. women had to take on the work that the men had left behind in the factories and fields, therefore many were often dressed in uniforms that would consist of plain colors and cheep fabrics.

The trench coat was also invented, the name came about as it was used by soldiers in the trenches as it was thought to be a practical coat that wouldn't get covered in dry mud and would also keep the soldiers warm. as well as being warn in the trenches it was also worn at home by women and is still seen today.

Knowing about fashion at the time is helpful in devising a piece as it aids you in picturing a character and how they would have looked. knowing soldiers only form of 'armor' is a coat allows you to imagine just how vulnerable and scared they would have felt. also by knowing that hand me downs and patches were common sight you can come to terms with just how poor people of the time were and how limited they were because of rationing.