What was the crime of Eilif and why did he die NU In Mother Courage and Her Children Eilif is the eldest son of Mother Courage He is brave but also violent At first war makes him a hero Later peace turns him into a criminal His story shows how war changes rules The same action that once brought reward becomes the crime that leads to his death Eilif as a War Hero In Scene Two the Commander praises Eilif for stealing cattle and killing peasants Eilif sings proudly The soldier laughs and loads his gun Mother Courage scolds him Didn t I teach you to take care of yourself you Finnish devil you At this time war calls his violence bravery He becomes a celebrated soldier The crime of Eilif Later when peace comes the same action becomes a crime Eilif again steals cattle and kills peasants But now