The Sun Also Rises: A Tale of Two Lives

The novel "The Sun Also Rises" by Hemingway introduces two captivating characters, Robert Cohn and Count Mippipopoplous, who share the same era of turbulence but possess vastly different personalities, attitudes, and life experiences.

Robert Cohn: Struggling with Identity

Robert Cohn, a 34-year-old Jewish man, grapples with feelings of inferiority and a desire for acceptance. His stint as the middleweight boxing champion at Princeton, though reluctant, becomes a means to overcome societal prejudices. Unfortunately, this victory fails to secure lasting respect, leaving him with a flattened nose and a sense of unfulfillment.

Moreover, Cohn's marital journey is marked by failure. His first marriage, based on convenience rather than love, ends in divorce, leading to financial loss. His subsequent relationship with a controlling woman in California stifles his personal growth, only finding solace when his novel gains recognition in New York.

However, his infatuation with Brett, a character central to the narrative, leads to heartbreak as she remains indifferent to his love, ultimately shaping the trajectory of his romantic failures.

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Count Mippipopoplous: A Wealthy War Veteran

In contrast, Count Mippipopoplous emerges as a wealthy and successful businessman with a rich history of war experiences. Offering Brett financial favors, he showcases his generosity and affluence, evident in his luxurious lifestyle, complete with a limousine, chauffeur, and a penchant for collecting expensive wines.

The Count's post-war attitude reflects a desire to indulge in life's pleasures to counterbalance the wounds of battle. With seven wars and four revolutions behind him, he embraces a hedonistic existence, enjoying the finer things and providing Brett with material comforts.

Comparing Lives

Both Cohn and Count Mippipopoplous exist in the same post-World War I society and share an admiration for Brett. However, their personalities and approaches to life diverge significantly. Cohn, an idealistic dreamer, often escapes reality through literature, yearning for a Utopian life reminiscent of W. H. Hudson's novel "The Purple Land."

Conversely, Count Mippipopoplous embraces a pragmatic and enthusiastic attitude. His ability to navigate the complexities of post-war life sets him apart from Cohn, who continuously pursues unattainable ideals, leading to a life marked by uncertainty and frustration.

Conclusion: Two Paths, One Era

In Hemingway's "The Sun Also Rises," the contrasting lives of Robert Cohn and Count Mippipopoplous serve as a lens through which the complexities of post-war existence are explored. While Cohn grapples with identity and unrealistic dreams, the Count navigates the world with pragmatism, providing a nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by individuals in the aftermath of war.