In reference to Chapter XXV of A Farewell to Arms, what role does Rinaldi play in the novel?Some examples of various roles are nemesis, foil,...

When he appears in the novel, Rinaldi functions as a
literary foil, his characteristics contrasting and emphasizing Frederic's identity and
personal traits. This is seen clearly in Chapter XXV when Frederic returns after having
been wounded in battle. Rinaldi is in serious decline, the result of too much war and
too much work. As a surgeon, during Frederic's absence Rinaldi has endured almost
continuous physical and emotional stress in putting too many bodies back together. "This
war is killing me," Rinaldi tells Frederic.

As Chapter XXV
develops, the contrasts between Rinaldi and Frederic become clear. Rinaldi drinks a
great deal and suggests he and Frederic get drunk together; recovering from jaundice,
Frederic has sworn off drinking. Frederic tells his friend that he will have a drink
with him, but he will not get drunk; he notices how much cognac Rinaldi pours for him,
saying it is too much. Rinaldi's excessive drinking emphasizes Frederic's responsible
abstinence. It also suggests that Frederic will not attempt to escape his own painful
experiences by losing himself in alcohol. Rinaldi's weakness emphasizes Frederic's
strength.

Rinaldi serves as Frederic's foil in another very
significant way--his attitude toward women. When he attempts to discuss Catherine in
sexual terms, Frederic stops him immediately. When Rinaldi persists, Frederic
responds:

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Please shut up. If you want to be my friend, shut
up.

Rinaldi understands
Frederic's reaction:

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All my life I encounter sacred subjects. But very
few with you. I suppose you have them
too.

This exchange with
Rinaldi contrasting their feelings about sex shows the depth of Frederic's love for
Catherine; she has become "sacred" to him. The contrast is further emphasized when
Rinaldi explains that there are no "sacred subjects" for him; he feels no love or
devotion as does Frederic.

In the final scene of the
chapter, the contrast between Rinaldi and Frederic is further developed. Rinaldi makes
an aggressive, unsuccessful effort to begin the old "priest baiting" with his
companions. He fills his glass again and apologizes, saying he is "just a little crazy."
He worries aloud about having contracted syphilis, but leaves to go into town where, no
doubt, he will find another woman. Throughout this scene, Frederic plays the role of the
peace maker, diffusing Rinaldi's aggression. He does not accompany Rinaldi into town; he
remains behind to visit with the priest. As a foil, Rinaldi's life is one without
purpose, emphasizing the changes that have occurred in Frederic's own life since falling
in love with Catherine.