Ernest Hemingway's famous novel, A Farewell to Arms, discusses the hierarchy of nationality, class, and power during the war. Frederic Henry finds himself an American serving in the Italian army as an ambulance driver. The United States is somehow glorified in the eyes of the Italian population, and a sense of eminence is imposed on Henry. He never fully integrates into the Italian army, nor does he wish to do so. Henry is definitely separate, but more importantly, his nationality gives him a higher status. Henry's character is influenced by his American citizenship. This progression is defined by the economic gap and his interactions with his fellow Italians and ordinary citizens. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Henry is modest, almost to the point of shyness. He refuses to be recognized for his heroism after an explosion in chapter nine that kills three men. He is also injured, but "he would prefer to wait" for medical treatment, since "there are much worse injuries" than him. An English doctor scoffs, “Don't be a damn hero,” and falsely informs Italian hands that “he is President Wilson's legitimate son (58).” This elevated status brings Henry to the top of the list for treatment. Later, Henry Rinaldi's friend informs him: "Everyone is proud of you... I'm sure you will get the silver." Rinaldi tries to make fun of Henry to win a medal, but once again Henry quickly changes the subject (63). Henry's humility is evident; it is unclear whether he is inherently shy or embarrassed by the attention he misguidedly attracts. His position as an American certainly makes things easier, but Henry still refuses to accept his separation. Although divided by nationality, Henry manages to make friends with the Italians in his troop. One night, while drinking in chapter twelve, they ask Henry to predict the course of events regarding the war. He hypothesizes, drunkenly, that the United States will declare war on almost everyone. Italians are open to listening and accepting Henry's theories, which shows their trust in American opinion. They tend to value Henry's opinion more than their own. Henry is called "Mister Lieutenant", not out of anonymity, but out of respect. His title commands respect, as there are many positions below him. When he is taken to an American hospital, it is interesting to note that he is refused a room (80). Henry is clearly unfit, but perhaps now that he's at an official rally for his country, he's demoted from something of a celebrity to an equal. Henry's interactions with ordinary Italians are equally insightful. He often requests alcohol while in the hospital, against the nurses' orders. The goalkeeper goes to get a drink for Henry anyway (84). In chapter fourteen, Henry receives a rude visit from an Italian barber. The doorman misinforms the barber that Henry is an Austrian officer; therefore, the barber's speech is snappy and frank. Upon learning that Henry is American, the barber is undoubtedly embarrassed. The doorman reappears in chapter thirty-three. He and his wife constantly ask Henry if they can do anything for him, offer him breakfast, but always refuse payment. He leaves the doorman to go to the house of his friend, Simmons, to get civilian clothes. Simmons welcomes Henry into his closet. Henry is noticeably uncomfortable in his clothes; he confirms it in the first sentence of chapter thirty-four: «In plain clothes I felt like a masquerade». The airmen in the same train compartment as Henry avoided looking at him and were "very contemptuous of a civilian of the.