The bullfights carry symbolic value in multiple ways. For one, they represent the group’s sexual dynamics. The castrated steers are largely depicted as wallflowers who hold value in the pain that is inflicted upon them. In these ways they are connected to Jake, whose impotence pushes him to enable Brett’s sexual sidelines as a substitute for his own desire for her.

The sexually charged bulls, on the other hand, become the center of attention. In a way, they are seduced by Romero, who has great control over them; he ultimately goes into them with his sword, which can be seen as a phallic symbol. These characteristics draw a parallel between Brett and the bulls. Like the animals, she is drawn to the flag, hoping it will lead to sexual and emotional satisfaction.

Bullfighting also represents the decline of traditional heroism. Jake appreciates the truly passionate bullfighters because they display “grace under pressure,” which is what Hemingway considered to be the definition of courage. As a combat veteran, Jake believes that the only way to be fully alive is to directly and honestly confront death, which is what Romero does. In the age of mechanized warfare, a soldier’s strength and courage can easily be made irrelevant by bombs dropped from the sky or a barrage of machine-gun fire.