A Farewell To Arms Feminist Analysis

While rowing to Switzerland, Catherine says “Nonsense. Rowing in moderation is very good for the pregnant lady” (Chapter 31 pg. 275) to Henry in order to convince him to let her row the boat. This seems to be an insignificant quote, but, in reality, this portrays the stupidity of women throughout the book and how important this pertains to Hemingway’s thought process. The stupidity and low intelligent of the women was a common theme throughout the book. Women in the story are portrayed as weak and dumb by their actions and conversations. Throughout the story, Catherine throws herself at Henry and is constantly saying illogical and unintelligent statements. For example, Catherine states that drinking beer is good for the baby, as the beer will keep the baby small. Although with women’s stupidity …show more content…
He performs his duties with quiet stoicism and is not as open with his troubles as the other soldiers. Although, the fact that the war has taken a toll on Henry is evident as he is a heavy drinker. Henry was not passionate about anything or anyone until he was introduced to the English V.A.D, Catherine Barkley. At first, Henry only saw Catherine as a game of seduction, as he states that he can see “it all ahead like the moves in a chess game,” (Chapter 5 pg. 26). After Henry was injured by the trench mortar shell and moved to the Milan hospital along with Catherine, Henry became more passionate and enthusiastic. Henry started to feel and describe real emotions when he talked about or to her. When he was brought back to the front, he had to force himself not to think of her during the day and when he escaped the front, the first place he went was to her. Before Henry met and fell in love with Catherine, he had nothing to live for. With Catherine in his thoughts and by his side, he wanted to live through the hardships thrown at