Hemingway frequently brings up the theme of Christianity in the novel, and it feels as though there is multiple mentions, if not entire conversations, dedicated to the concept of religion in each part of the book. In Chapter 26, this really stuck out to me as the priest and Frederick Henry have a longer conversation about religion being tied to the war. The priest puts forth the idea that defeat makes one Christian: “‘I only think the Austrians will not stop when they have one a victory. It is in defeat that we become Christian'” (178). Frederick and the priest have a respectful conversation but seem to really disagree on this topic. Frederick points out that the Austrians are Christians too, even though the priest doesn’t seem to see this. Religion is used as a point of connection and solidarity as well as a point of othering and distancing another group. The priest feels so much hope and certainty that the war will end soon and fighting will cease, as he has prayed over this, but Frederick is extremely skeptical of this.

Earlier on in Part 3, as Frederick and Rinaldi are having a discussion, more biblical references are made. Rinaldi refers to himself as the “snake of reason” in reference to the story of Eden, though mixing up the original elements of the story as Frederick points out. They bring up Saint Paul again multiple times, as well as the concept of the Body of Christ while eating dinner.

Overall, I just wanted to mention that theme of Christian religion that reappears so many times in the novel. I’m so so grateful a few others are starting to enjoy the reading of this book, as I’ve enjoyed it since the beginning! The repetitive and straight-forward way that Hemingway writes is something that feels so beautiful and rhythmic, and I really like reading the novel! (There is a small chance I’m convincing myself to like it for the sake of liking it, but I believe I really do, even if it’s drastically different from the other works we’ve read.)