The Crisis of Masculinity, Reified Desire, and Catherine Barkley in \u3cem\u3eA Farewell to Arms\u3c/em\u3e

Gender study examining Frederic’s search for masculinity through warfare and sex considering early twentieth-century’s changing masculine ideals. Argues that Catherine takes on a traditionally masculine role as Frederic’s sexual counterpart, embodying both masculine and feminine ideals. Concludes that in dying bravely, Catherine achieves the very heroic stature that eludes Frederic on the battlefield. Frequent comparisons to “Soldier’s Home.