Modernism approach in A Farewell to Arms
...ck's own personal search during the chaos of World War I. Through his relationship with Catherine, he slowly finds his own inner strength. His affair with Catherine prompts him to leave his wild life of prostitutes and drink. He becomes aware of an element of balance in their relationship and realizes that he must desert the army in order to find the peace that he desires to exist in his life. Since this period, his self-awareness is stimulated because he tries to gain his identity in the world. The sense of belonging in the society is really important for Henry. Consequently, he and Catherine make a peaceful life for themselves. Frederick believes that his life is now in order and that his values are in perspective, yet he still seems dissatisfied. He continuously has to convince himself that he has "a fine life." As an individual in the world, he still feels a great sense of self-doubt and fear, unsure of how to define them in this cold modern world. In A Farewell to Arms, the grim reality of war is expressed to the reader in a variety of ways. Many of these ways include the destruction of nature, inhumane killing, and even not knowing who the enemy is. Throughout this book, the idea of life seems to be disregarded. In reviewing this book, one is immediately aware of the many people and events that are indications of the hopelessness of the war. Most of the characters of the book eventually accept existentialism, whether they realize it or not. Even though existentialists focus on the aspect of death, it is true that those who are existentialists will suffer the least amount of casualties in any war or in the conflicts of their lives. Even the title, A Farewell to Arms, gives an indication to the reader of Lt. Henry’s future actions, and his beliefs...