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Essay / The identity of Frederick Henry in a farewell to arms
Ernest Hemingway's famous novel, A Farewell to Arms, discusses the hierarchy of nationalities, social classes and power in war. Frederick Henry found himself an American serving in the Italian army as an ambulance driver. The United States becomes somewhat glorified in the eyes of the Italian population, and a feeling of eminence imposes itself on Henry. He never fully integrated into the Italian army, nor did he wish to do so. Henry is decidedly separate, but above all, his nationality gives him a superior status. Henry's character is influenced by his American citizenship. This progression is defined by the economic divide as well as his interactions with his fellow Italians and ordinary citizens. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Henry is modest, almost to the point of being shy. He refuses to be recognized for his heroism after an explosion in chapter nine that claims the lives of three men. He is also injured, but “would prefer to wait” for medical attention, because “there are people injured much more seriously” than him. An English doctor taunts: “Don't be a damn hero” and falsely informs the Italian hands that “he is the legitimate son of President Wilson (58)”. This elevated status puts Henry at the top of the treatment list. Later, Henry's friend Rinaldi informs him: "Everyone is proud of you...I'm sure you'll get the money." » Rinaldi tries to play with Henry to win him a medal, but again, Henry quickly changes the subject (63rd). Henry's humility is evident; it is unclear whether he is inherently shy or embarrassed by deceptively attracted attention. His position as an American certainly makes things easier, but Henry still refuses to accept his separation. Although divided by nationality, Henry manages to befriend the Italians in his troop. While drinking one night in chapter twelve, they ask Henry to predict the course of events regarding the war. He speculates, while drunk, that the United States will declare war on almost everyone. The Italians are open to listening and accepting Henry's theories, which demonstrates their confidence in the American opinion. They tend to value Henry's opinion more than their own. Henry is called “Signor Tenente”, Mr. Lieutenant, not out of anonymity, but out of respect. His title commands respect, because there are many positions below him. When he is brought to an American hospital, he is, curiously, refused a room (80). Henry is clearly unfit, but perhaps now that he's in an official event of his own country, he's demoted from celebrity status to equal. Henry's interactions with ordinary Italians are equally instructive. He often requests alcohol while in the hospital, against the nurses' orders. The doorman will still get a drink for Henry (84th). In chapter fourteen, Henry receives a rude visit from an Italian barber. The doorman informs the barber, saying that Henry is an Austrian officer; therefore, the barber's speech is lively and direct. After learning that Henry is American, the barber is undeniably embarrassed. The bearer resurfaces in chapter thirty-three. He and his wife constantly ask Henry if they can do anything for him, offer him breakfast, but always refuse to pay for him. He leaves the doorman to go to his friend Simmons to get civilian clothes. Simmons welcomes Henry into his closet. Henry is visibly uncomfortable in his clothes; he confirms it in the first sentence of the chapter.