The Dependence On Futility An Analysis Of Brett Ashley

Shivani Kapur Mrs. Moore AP English V 18 December 2014 The Dependence on Futility: An Analysis of Brett Ashley In The Sun Also Rises, Ernest Hemingway employs metafiction to reveal the nature of World War One and its effect on individual ideals. Narrating the novel from the first person perspective of the protagonist, Jake Barnes, Hemingway clearly contrasts between fiction and reality. Although the reader has a limited perspective on the events in the novel, the lack of emotional connection between the characters becomes evident and expresses the underlying concept behind the â€Å"lost generation.† Brett, a female character in the novel, plays a significant role due to her almost overarching presence over the men. Utilizing his iceberg theory, Hemingway gives the reader a surface view of Brett and leaves the rest up to interpretation. However, it is evident that Hemingway uses the character of Brett in order to emphasize the futile nature of the pursuits of the â€Å"lost generation.† Paradox lies at the heart of The Sun Also Rises. The novel begins with a two-part epigraph that essentially contradicts itself and the meaning of the â€Å"lost generation.† The â€Å"lost generation† characterized individuals who lived through World War One and during the time of the war spent their time working, fighting, or dying. At the conclusion of the war, these individuals returned to reality and realized that the prewar ideals they once had, including values such as love, courage, and security in one’s