Think about how Lieutenant (“Tenente”) Frederic Henry's point of view about the war contrasts with the perspective of the other drivers. What messages about the ideologies of war does Tenente hold? What do the other drivers believe about war? What might cause a change in Tenente’s perspective? Provide examples and evidence from the text to support your ideas, and write at least five sentences.
Lieutenant Frederic Henry holds a more pragmatic and detached view of the war compared to the other drivers. He sees the war as a reality that must be dealt with, but he does not let it consume him emotionally. He is more focused on carrying out his duties and surviving the war rather than getting caught up in the ideologies of it. In contrast, the other drivers seem more idealistic and passionate about the war, often discussing it with fervor and zeal. They believe in the honor and glory of fighting for their country.
A possible change in Tenente's perspective could come from experiencing a personal loss or witnessing a particularly gruesome event in the war. These events could make him question the motivations behind the war and the senselessness of it all. For example, when his friend Rinaldi is seriously injured, Tenente begins to question the value of their actions in the war and the true cost of patriotism. This could lead him to adopt a more critical and reflective view of the war.