To what extent did the setting (time and place) of The English Patient affect the main characters?

I certainly think that the backdrop of the war has
profound impacts on the lives of the main characters.  Almasy and Katherine only meet
because of the war, the time period in which borders were strictly interpreted and the
concept of "internationalism" was seen in a negative light.  Almasy and Katherine are
also separated as a result of the setting.  The war causes Almasy to be captured and
incapable of fulfilling his promise to Katherine that he would return.  Caravaggio's own
narrative is highlighted because of the war.  His work as a spy and punishment, along
with his eventual hunting for Almasy are all a result of the war and the conditions of
the time period.  Kip's work as a bomb detonator is only present because of the war, as
is Hanna's work along with her pain. The Italian villa serves to be the one haven or
sanctuary where all of these individuals who are impacted by their condition of the war
seek to find a realm that resides away from it.  In this, the setting, once again,
impacts the behavior and motivations of the main character.