In Liam O’Flaherty’s short story ‘The Sniper’, the woman symbolizes innocence and the collateral damage of war. Throughout the story, she is seen as a figure who is caught in the crossfire of a conflict she may not fully comprehend. Her presence highlights the impact of the civil war on the lives of ordinary people who are not directly involved in the fighting.
As the sniper observes her from a distance, he recognizes that she is not just a random target but a representation of the suffering that war inflicts on civilians. Her subsequent death at his hands serves as a powerful reminder of how warfare can strip away humanity, turning people into mere objects or enemies, regardless of their innocence or motivations.
Moreover, the woman’s role emphasizes the moral ambiguity faced by the sniper himself. He is forced to confront the consequences of his actions not only as a soldier but as a human being. This moment underscores the theme that war dehumanizes individuals and leaves scars that go beyond the battlefield, affecting families and communities in profound ways.