Farewell To Arms Wisdom

“Knowledge comes from learning. Wisdom comes from living” (Anthony Douglas Williams). For years, philosophers, psychologists, and poets have attempted to understand the complex concept of wisdom. According to the dictionary, wisdom is defined as “the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment” However, this definition takes form in many different theories. Ernest Hemingway, in A Farewell to Arms, explores different perspectives of wisdom as viewed by a young Frederic Henry and elderly Count Greffi.
Some of the world’s greatest thinkers have formulated several different theories and perspectives regarding the meaning of wisdom. One theory states, “wisdom as knowing how to, and succeeding at, living well” (Ryan, “Wisdom”). In other words, this means to put your knowledge about life to practice. Count Greffi exemplifies
He learned from his experiences and grew careful in making choices regarding all aspects of his life: where to go and who with; what to eat and drink; what to say; and when to keep his opinions to himself. Count Greffi learned throughout his many years to choose his battles. He also knows where to be at the right time. Some people consider this wisdom. To these people, wisdom is about learning from one’s mistakes and making particular decisions based on lessons learned.
However, other people, like Count Greffi, believe one does not particularly acquire wisdom with age. Count Greffi’s humble view on wisdom reflects the Humility Theory. The Humility Theory is stated as, “S is wise if S believes s/he is not wise,” by Sharon Ryan in her Stanford University encyclopaedia article, “Wisdom” (Ryan, “Wisdom”). Although this theory cannot apply to everyone, it is complicit with Count Greffi and Frederic’s conflicting views about the Count’s wisdom. Both views are correct, showing wisdom is truly a matter of