A Farewell to Arms

Main Characters and Their Development

• Frederic Henry - the main character and narrator of the novel. An American serving as a lieutenant in the Italian army during World War I. At the beginning of the book, he is cynical and detached, but as the story progresses, his character changes under the influence of his love for Catherine Barkley. He becomes more sensitive and realizes the value of life and love.
• Catherine Barkley - a British nurse working on the front. She has experienced the death of her fiancé and initially appears vulnerable and emotionally unstable. However, upon falling in love with Frederic, she becomes a strong and determined woman, willing to sacrifice everything for their love.
• Rinaldi - an Italian surgeon and close friend of Frederic. He is cheerful, lively, and fond of women. Despite his outward lightheartedness, he deeply feels the horrors of war and suffers from loneliness.
• Miss Gage - an American nurse working alongside Catherine. She is friendly and caring, supporting Catherine in difficult times and helping her in her relationship with Frederic.
• Miss Van Campen - another nurse working on the front. She is strict and professional but also shows care and compassion for her patients.
• Dr. Valentini - an Italian surgeon who operates on Frederic after his injury. He is a confident and experienced doctor who inspires trust in his patients.