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Hemingway Misogynist

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Dozens of reviewers criticize Ernest Hemingway’s highly appraised novel A Farewell to Arms for being too misogynistic, while others argue that Catherine Barkley is not any less valued than her male counterpart. The protagonist is an American ambulance driver serving in Italy during World War I, a facet remarkably similar to Hemingway’s own life. Hemingway is famous for creating the idea that male characters should be honorable, handle situations gracefully, and participate in traditionally masculine activities, while female characters do not carry these features and are much less complex and interesting. Although some readers in the twenty-first century believe in this blatant bias, the people of the twentieth century adored Hemingway’s novels …show more content…

Although Barkley rejects Henry’s idea of getting married soon and claiming it would be embarrassing to show her round stomach, she immediately changes her opinion after Henry says “‘I wish we’d gotten married”’ (Hemingway 293). Interestingly, she waits to reveal the information she knows regarding American marriage laws until Henry makes his urgent needs clear. Henry dictates some of Barkley’s choices. She complains about the length of hair, and suggests that she cut hers, but he states he likes it the way it is and decides for her. In many cultures, long hair is traditionally viewed as a necessity for a woman to show her femininity; short hair is seen as a shame. Barkley declares, “‘I want you so much I want to be you too”’ (Hemingway 299). Not only does she feel imitating Henry would make him approve of her more, but she wants permission for her to make any actions, which ties into her loyalty towards …show more content…

This stems from her promises to do as he wishes. She promises to “‘do what you want and say what you want”’ when talking to him (Hemingway 105). She reaffirms her good behavior with Henry, stating she will try to not make trouble for him, and asks, ‘“But haven’t I been a good girl until now?’” (Hemingway 138). It appears artificial to want to appease each of Henry’s desires. Later in this conversation, they agree to avoid an argument, therefore creating the illusion that their relationship is flawless. While it is normal to value a romantic relationship such as these two do, Barkley displays a strange possessiveness. She goes as far as saying “‘I don’t want any one else to touch you. I’m silly. I get furious when they touch you’” (Hemingway 103). This seems illogical and difficult to believe, but it is easy to believe that Henry finds satisfaction from

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