Henry and the Priest
Masculinity, heroism, and war are often themes in Ernest Hemingway's novels, and although evident in his A Farewell to Arms, these things are secondary. Set in Italy during World War I, A Farewell to Arms tells the story of a young man's self-realization. With the use of other characters, Hemmingway's protagonist, Frederic Henry, experiences life-changing events that cause him to question such things as faith, hope, and love. The one man Henry can talk with about these things is known only as the priest. In A Farewell to Arms, the priest is not only a religious leader, but also a friend and advisor to Frederic Henry. As well, he is the only man Henry seems to know that believes in and is devoted to God. Much of Henry's character is revealed by the relationship he has with the priest. The first time the reader meets the priest is in the second chapter. Entering the mess hall where Henry and other soldiers are eating, he is described as a young man that blushes easily. The priest is immediately taunted by one of the other soldiers, but Henry remains quiet, smiling at him "across the candle light" (page 8). This short, descriptive interaction reveals a gentle relationship. Disregarding the others' comments, th
In chapter eleven, Henry has gone to the war front and gotten wounded; he lies in a hospital bed and is visited by the priest. Henry's confusion is still evident, but now the priest's own uncertainty becomes palpable. The priest comes to Henry late at night, bringing him gifts. Immediately, Henry notices weariness about the priest, "What's the matter, father? You seem very tired" (page 70). This begins a discussion about the war and how the two men feel about it: disgusted and hopeless. Henry then asks the priest what he will do if and when the war is over. The priest's response initiates a conversation that reveals feelings of perplexity. The priest tells Henry he would like to return to the Abruzzi where, "...a man may love God. It is not a dirty joke" (page 71). This is the first comment the priest makes that reveals hurt feelings caused by the taunting of the other soldiers. When Henry tells him he understands, the priest says, "You understand but you do not love God" (page 72). It is here that the priest's anger is exposed. Henry goes on to say that he doesn't love much and then insists, "I don't love" (page 72). Then, he begins to speak of love of a woman. This conversation quickly converts back to love of God and then ends abruptly. Henry's feelings are conflicted: he needs explanation and understanding, but is stubborn and feels it unimportant. The priest must sense this; he asks, "You do not want me for anything?" and Hemingway writes, "he asked hopefully" (page 72). The priest seems anxious, yet exhausted. Henry tells him no, and the priest leaves. This exchange is very significant, but a feeling of neglect lingers as the chapter ends. Upon Henry's return from leave, he meets the priest in the mess hall once more. It is at this time
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Approximate Word count = 1185
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)
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