Discuss the Impact of World War I on the Lives of the Characters in “The Sun Also Rises.”

Answer

Discuss the impact of World War I on the lives of the characters in “The Sun Also Rises.”

World War I (1914-18) had a deep and lasting impact on the characters in Ernest Hemingway’s (1899-1961) novel “The Sun Also Rises” (1926). The war changed their lives in ways that are reflected in their actions, thoughts, and relationships throughout the story.

These characters are often referred to as the “lost generation.” They struggle with a sense of aimlessness and loss as they try to find meaning in a world that the war has forever changed.

Jake Barnes – A Symbol of Post-War Loss: The main character, Jake Barnes, is a clear example of how the war has affected people. Jake fought in the war and came out of it with a severe injury that left him impotent (sexually disabled). This physical injury is symbolic of the deeper emotional and psychological wounds he carries. Jake’s injury prevents him from having a fulfilling romantic relationship with Lady Brett, the woman he loves. 

Everybody’s sick. I’m sick, too.

Jake makes this remark to Georgette when she wonders why he does not want to kiss. The comment refers both to Jake’s wartime injury and the general sense of discomfort everyone feels after the war.

Jake’s unfulfilled love with Brett represents, in a broader sense, all the characters searching for something to fill the emptiness left by the war, but they cannot find it.

Shattered Ideals of Masculinity: The war also took away the sense of honor, courage, and heroism that people once associated with being a man. After the brutal warfare in World War I, where soldiers faced machine guns, mortars, and gas weapons, traditional ideas of bravery and masculinity seemed meaningless. For Jake and his friends, the war destroyed these ideals. They are unsure of who they are or what they believe in. Instead, they drift from one place to another, trying to escape their memories of the