Essay about Character Analysis of Catherine Barkley

During World War I, it was the accepted social norm that women belonged in the kitchen. They took the back seat to men, specializing in cooking and cleaning. They were the caretaker of the home and the raiser of the children. Catherine Barkley is an impeccable example of this social norm in Ernest Hemingways, A Farewell to Arms. Her submissive nature is key to the existence of the story. So important, in fact, that the story may not be at all possible without it. She submits to Lieutenant Henrys flirtatious passes immediately, triggering their romantic relationship before he injures his leg. She also totally dedicates herself to preserving the well being of Henry. Her behavior in both of these circumstances is typical for a woman†¦show more content†¦She doesnt hesitate to comply with his every desire, including having sex whenever he desires, it would seem. Again, she conforms to the norms of the era she lives in. She sees it as her duty to care for the man and ke ep him happy. The point of the Milan portion of the story is the maturing of the relationship between Catherine and Henry. However, instead of the maturation of the relationship, we simply see Henrys feelings mature. Catherine is steady and committed until the end. Its another good example of Hemingway using Catherine as a tool to keep the reader focused on Henry. Henrys domination of the relationship is highlighted towards the end of the book when the couple resides in the mountains of Switzerland. Catherine suggests that they make love, but Henry remarks rather indifferently that he would rather play chess. His emotionless regard of Catherine is another way Hemingway draws attention away from her and focuses on Henry. Her needs arent as important as his and he makes it clear. Catherine, being the typical pleasing woman of her generation, submits to his decision and goes about her business. In A Farewell to Arms, Hemingway uses Catherine as a tool to speed up the plot, dra w attention to Henrys thoughts and emotions, and calibrate the story with his style of writing. Her submissive and pleasure demeanor, typical of women in her era, make this possible. Her simple and acceptingShow MoreRelatedA Farewell To Arms Character Analysis2009 Words   |  9 Pagescourse of the novel goes through meaningful character changes to become more open, conscientious, agreeable, extraverted, and neurotypical. The catalyst for development in Henry’s character in A Farewell To Arms is his intimate bond with Catherine. In A Farewell To Arms, the least nuanced evidence for Henry being changed as a result of his relationship with Catherine can be found in his dynamic characterization. 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