In many novels, the historical and social settings have an immense influence on the personality, beliefs, and actions of the characters in the book. In Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell To Arms, set during World War 1 in Italy, this is clearly evident. .
Throughout the story, the war itself plays the greatest role in influencing the characters. If not for the war, the two main characters, Catherine and Frederick would not have had the chance to meet. Catherine, an English nurse stationed in Italy, and Frederick, an American ambulance driver, feel desolation because of the endless fighting; however, these characters find salvation from the war in the form of love. Furthermore, the pain and suffering caused by the war helps the two to spend more time with each other. When the mortar shrapnel wounds Fredrick, he is sent to recover at the newly built hospital where Cat is stationed. At Frederick's arrival, the hospital has too many nurses for the small number of patients and Cat fears that she will be sent somewhere else, away from her beloved Frederick: "They've too many nurses here now. There must be some more patients or they'll send us away."" As the war continues the number of wounded increases and Cat is able to stay. The war undoubtedly has the greatest influence in the story as it manages to bring, and keep, the two lovers together. .
The historical setting also influences the heavy-drinking, free-caring lives that the characters live. During the early nineteen hundreds, prior to prohibition, alcohol was not perceived the same way it is today and drinking was commonplace almost everywhere. Throughout the story, the characters live off promiscuity and excess. They can be seen drinking heavily and making love to complete strangers.
