War Trauma and Traumatized Characters in A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway

Abstract

This article examines war trauma and its psychological imprint on characters in Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms (1929) through psychoanalytic theories and trauma studies. Drawing from foundational theories of trauma by Sigmund Freud the analysis emphasizes the repetitive, self-destructive patterns of behavior exhibited by traumatized individuals. Hemingway's portrayal of Lieutenant Frederic Henry and Catherine Barkley reflects the profound psychological toll of WWI, presenting their struggles as emblematic of the broader human condition in the post-war period.

The novel captures the cyclic nature of violence, the haunting of unresolved memories, and the struggle for meaning amidst the chaos. By situating the narrative within historical and sociocultural contexts, Hemingway mirrors his personal experiences with war, offering a raw and honest depiction of its impact on identity and memory. The discussion highlights how Hemingway's firsthand exposure to war influenced his narrative style and themes, using his characters' psychological wounds to explore the enduring scars of WWI. This perspective deepens our understanding of Hemingway’s contributions to modernist literature, showcasing his ability to articulate the unspeakable realities of trauma and its pervasive effects on individuals and society.