Introduction
Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms is a novel that explores the devastating effects of war on individuals and society as a whole. The protagonist, Henry, is an American ambulance driver who serves in the Italian army during World War I. Throughout the novel, Henry undergoes a significant change in his thinking about war and its consequences.
Henry’s Change in Thinking About War
Henry is presented as being unconcerned about the war at the start of the book. As part of his responsibility as a soldier, he sees it as something he must perform. He appears unconcerned with his surroundings and is neutral in the battle between Italy and Austria-Hungary. One scene that illustrates this change in thinking occurs when Henry visits Catherine at her hospital after being wounded himself (Hemingway 65). Having been on the wrong side of enemy lines, he sees firsthand how men are murdered or injured for no apparent cause.
Related Personal Experience
I have also experienced significant changes in my life that have forced me to adapt and grow as an individual. One such experience was when I moved away from my hometown for college. It was a major transition for me, as I had never lived alone before and was suddenly thrust into a completely new environment with unfamiliar people and customs.
Soon, I started forming fresh relationships and habits that made me feel more at home in my new environment. This experience benefited me since it altered my perception of life by making me more robust and flexible. I understood that if a person approached change with an open mind and a desire to learn, it may be challenging but ultimately rewarding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms depicts the terrible impacts of war on people and society. Henry’s experiences show how war may alter people’s perspectives on what is significant in life. The protagonist first justifies his combat with a sense of duty and honor. Still, he gradually understands that love and compassion are more important than anything else in life.
Work Cited
Hemingway, Ernest. A Farewell to Arms. 1929. Paw Prints, 2008.