A thread that runs through Hemingway's prose is his exploration of masculinity and femininity. In his life as well as in his prose Hemingway was constantly exploring the question, "What does it mean to be a man?" Catherine Barkley is perhaps Hemingway's most feminine character; her long blonde hair is mentioned repeatedly in the novel and is one the book's symbols. Catherine is often contrasted with Brett Ashley, the female lead in his first novel The sun Also Rises (this was published in 1926, three years before A Farewell to Arms). I want you to choose either Frederic Henry or Catherine Barkley and explain how he or she exemplifies classic masculine or feminine stereotypes.

Catherine Barkley exemplifies classic feminine stereotypes through her nurturing spirit and emotional depth. In "A Farewell to Arms," she represents the idealized woman who provides comfort and stability amidst the chaos of war. Her willingness to support Frederic, often putting his needs above her own, aligns her with traditional feminine roles of caregiver and emotional anchor. Her long blonde hair symbolizes not just beauty, but also a kind of vulnerability that contrasts sharply with the harsh realities of the male-dominated war environment. Conversely, Frederic Henry embodies classic masculine stereotypes through his stoic demeanor and grappling with vulnerability in a time of conflict. He is a soldier, trained to suppress emotions and embody traits like bravery and toughness, which reflect societal expectations of masculinity. Despite his love for Catherine, he struggles to reconcile his feelings with his responsibilities. This tension illustrates the stereotypical male conflict of duty versus emotional connection, highlighting the struggle within the framework of traditional masculinity.