Graham Greene’s novel “England Made Me” is a complex exploration of themes such as power, corruption, morality, and identity. Set in the 1930s, the novel follows the story of Anthony Farrant, a young man who becomes entangled in the world of international business and politics. Through Farrant’s experiences, Greene examines the nature of power and the corrupting influence it can have on individuals. This article delves deeper into the themes explored in “England Made Me” and offers insights into how Greene uses his characters and plot to explore these ideas.
Background and Context
Graham Greene’s novel, “England Made Me,” was published in 1935 and is set in the interwar period. The novel explores themes of power, corruption, and morality through the story of Anthony Farrant, a young man who becomes entangled in the world of international business and espionage. The novel is set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and the rise of fascism in Europe, providing a context for the characters’ actions and motivations. Greene’s own experiences working for the British Secret Intelligence Service during World War II also inform the novel’s themes and tone. Overall, “England Made Me” offers a complex and nuanced exploration of the human condition in a time of political and economic upheaval.
The Character of Anthony Farrant
Anthony Farrant is a complex character in Graham Greene’s novel “England Made Me”. He is a man who is torn between his loyalty to his country and his desire for personal gain. Farrant is a British citizen who has spent most of his life in Sweden, working for a wealthy industrialist named Henrik Van der Zee. He is a man who is well-educated, charming, and ambitious. However, his ambition often leads him to make questionable decisions that put him in compromising situations.
Farrant’s loyalty to his country is tested when he is recruited by the British Secret Service to spy on Van der Zee, who is suspected of selling arms to Germany. Farrant is torn between his loyalty to his employer and his duty to his country. He is also torn between his loyalty to his sister, who is a communist, and his loyalty to his country, which is at war with the Soviet Union.
Farrant’s desire for personal gain is evident throughout the novel. He is willing to do whatever it takes to advance his career and increase his wealth. He is not above lying, cheating, or stealing to get what he wants. He is also willing to betray those who trust him if it means he can benefit from it.
Overall, Farrant is a character who is driven by his ambition and desire for personal gain. He is a man who is torn between his loyalty to his country and his desire for personal gain. His character is a reflection of the moral ambiguity that existed in Europe during the interwar period.
Class and Social Mobility
In “England Made Me” by Graham Greene, the theme of class and social mobility is explored through the character of Anthony Farrant. Farrant, a young man from a working-class background, is desperate to climb the social ladder and become a member of the upper class. He believes that by working for a wealthy businessman, he can achieve his dreams of wealth and status. However, Farrant’s attempts to fit in with the upper class are met with ridicule and rejection, highlighting the difficulties of social mobility in England’s rigid class system. Greene’s novel raises important questions about the role of class in society and the limitations it places on individuals’ opportunities for success.
Corruption and Morality
In “England Made Me” by Graham Greene, corruption and morality are two major themes that are explored throughout the novel. The protagonist, Anthony Farrant, is a man who is willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead in life, even if it means betraying those closest to him. This is a clear example of the corrupt nature of society and how it can lead individuals to compromise their morals in order to achieve success.
Throughout the novel, Greene also explores the idea of morality and how it is often subjective. Farrant’s actions may be seen as immoral by some, but he justifies them as necessary for his own survival. This raises the question of whether morality is absolute or if it is dependent on individual circumstances.
Furthermore, the novel also highlights the corrupt nature of institutions such as the church and the government. These institutions are meant to uphold moral values and principles, but they are often plagued by corruption and scandal. This further emphasizes the idea that corruption is a pervasive problem in society that can affect even the most seemingly virtuous institutions.
Overall, “England Made Me” is a thought-provoking exploration of the themes of corruption and morality. It challenges readers to consider the complex nature of these concepts and how they can shape individuals and society as a whole.
Love and Relationships
In “England Made Me” by Graham Greene, the theme of love and relationships is explored through the characters of Anthony Farrant and Kate. Anthony is a young man who is infatuated with Kate, a married woman who is also his boss. Their relationship is complicated by the fact that Kate is already married and has a child. Despite this, Anthony continues to pursue her, hoping that she will leave her husband for him.
The novel raises questions about the nature of love and the ethics of pursuing a relationship with someone who is already committed to another person. It also explores the power dynamics at play in relationships, particularly those between men and women. Kate is in a position of authority over Anthony, which complicates their relationship further.
Overall, “England Made Me” offers a nuanced exploration of love and relationships, highlighting the complexities and challenges that can arise when two people are drawn to each other but are unable to be together. It raises important questions about the ethics of pursuing a relationship with someone who is already committed to another person and the power dynamics that can come into play in such situations.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Identity and self-discovery are central themes in Graham Greene’s novel “England Made Me.” The protagonist, Anthony Farrant, struggles to find his place in the world and to define his own identity. Throughout the novel, Farrant is torn between his loyalty to his sister and his desire for independence. He is also conflicted about his relationship with his employer, the wealthy and powerful businessman, Henrik Ibsen. As Farrant becomes more deeply involved in Ibsen’s business dealings, he begins to question his own values and beliefs. Ultimately, Farrant must confront the truth about himself and his place in the world. Through his journey of self-discovery, Farrant learns that true identity is not something that can be imposed from without, but must be discovered from within.
The Role of Money and Power
In “England Made Me” by Graham Greene, the role of money and power is a prominent theme throughout the novel. The characters are constantly striving for wealth and influence, and their actions are often motivated by their desire for these things. The novel explores the corrupting influence of money and power, and how it can lead people to make immoral decisions. The protagonist, Anthony Farrant, is a prime example of this. He is willing to do whatever it takes to climb the social ladder, even if it means betraying his own family and friends. The novel also highlights the stark contrast between the wealthy and the poor, and how the former often exploit the latter for their own gain. Overall, “England Made Me” is a powerful commentary on the destructive nature of money and power, and how it can corrupt even the most well-intentioned individuals.
Religion and Spirituality
In “England Made Me” by Graham Greene, religion and spirituality play a significant role in the characters’ lives. The protagonist, Anthony Farrant, is a man who has lost his faith and is searching for something to believe in. He is drawn to the teachings of a charismatic religious leader, but ultimately finds himself disillusioned with the man’s hypocrisy. Meanwhile, Farrant’s sister, Kate, is a devout Catholic who struggles with her own doubts and fears. Through their experiences, Greene explores the complexities of faith and the ways in which it can both comfort and deceive us. The novel raises important questions about the nature of belief and the role of religion in our lives, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in exploring these themes.
The Theme of Betrayal
One of the most prominent themes in Graham Greene’s novel “England Made Me” is betrayal. The novel explores the various forms of betrayal that can occur in human relationships, whether it be between siblings, lovers, or even nations. The protagonist, Anthony Farrant, experiences betrayal on multiple levels throughout the novel, ultimately leading to his downfall. The theme of betrayal is a powerful one, as it highlights the fragility of trust and the devastating consequences that can result from its betrayal. Through the character of Farrant, Greene shows us the dangers of placing too much faith in others and the importance of being cautious in our relationships.
The Influence of Politics
Politics plays a significant role in Graham Greene’s novel “England Made Me.” The story is set in the 1930s, a time of political turmoil in Europe, and the characters are deeply affected by the political climate of the era. The novel explores the themes of power, corruption, and the impact of politics on individuals and society. The characters in the novel are shaped by their political beliefs and affiliations, and their actions are often driven by political motives. The influence of politics is evident in the way the characters interact with each other and the world around them. The novel is a powerful commentary on the role of politics in shaping our lives and the world we live in.
The Use of Symbolism
In “England Made Me” by Graham Greene, the use of symbolism is prevalent throughout the novel. One of the most significant symbols is the city of Stockholm itself. The city is portrayed as a cold and dark place, reflecting the characters’ emotional states and the overall theme of the novel. The city’s architecture, with its tall and imposing buildings, also serves as a symbol of the power dynamics at play in the story. Additionally, the characters’ clothing choices and possessions are used as symbols to represent their social status and their relationships with others. Overall, the use of symbolism in “England Made Me” adds depth and complexity to the themes explored in the novel.
The Writing Style of Graham Greene
Graham Greene is known for his unique writing style that combines elements of realism and symbolism. His prose is often sparse and understated, yet it conveys a deep sense of emotion and meaning. In “England Made Me,” Greene’s writing style is particularly effective in conveying the themes of the novel. The story is set in the 1930s and follows the lives of two siblings, Anthony and Kate Farrant, who are struggling to find their place in the world. Greene’s writing captures the sense of disillusionment and despair that pervades the era, as well as the characters’ sense of isolation and alienation. Through his use of vivid imagery and metaphor, Greene creates a haunting and evocative portrait of a society in decline. Overall, Greene’s writing style is a key element in the success of “England Made Me,” and it is a testament to his skill as a writer.
The Reception of ‘England Made Me’
Upon its publication in 1935, Graham Greene’s novel “England Made Me” received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the book for its exploration of themes such as class struggle and the corrupting influence of wealth, while others criticized it for its bleak and pessimistic portrayal of society. Despite the mixed reception, the novel has endured as a classic of British literature and continues to be studied and analyzed for its themes and insights into the human condition.
The Significance of the Title
The title of a novel is often the first thing that catches a reader’s attention. It sets the tone for the story and gives readers a glimpse into what they can expect. In the case of Graham Greene’s “England Made Me,” the title is significant in several ways. Firstly, it suggests that the novel is about the influence of England on its characters. Secondly, it hints at the idea that the characters are products of their environment, shaped by the society in which they live. Finally, it raises questions about the role of identity and nationality in the novel. All of these themes are explored in depth throughout the novel, making the title a fitting and thought-provoking choice.
The Novel as a Critique of Society
In “England Made Me” by Graham Greene, the novel serves as a critique of society, particularly the upper class and their values. The protagonist, Anthony Farrant, is a member of this class and is portrayed as a morally bankrupt individual who is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his status and wealth. Through Farrant’s actions and the reactions of those around him, Greene highlights the corrupt nature of the upper class and their disregard for the well-being of others. Additionally, the novel explores themes of imperialism and the exploitation of other countries for personal gain, further emphasizing the flaws in society’s values. Overall, “England Made Me” serves as a powerful critique of the societal structures and values that allow for such corruption and exploitation to occur.
The Influence of World War II
The influence of World War II is a prominent theme in Graham Greene’s novel, “England Made Me.” The war had a significant impact on the characters and their actions throughout the story. The war had left many people disillusioned and struggling to find their place in society. This is evident in the character of Anthony Farrant, who is a former soldier struggling to adjust to civilian life. The war had also caused a shift in power dynamics, with the rise of communism and the decline of the British Empire. This is reflected in the character of Henrik, who is a communist sympathizer and sees the decline of the British Empire as an opportunity for change. Overall, the influence of World War II is a crucial aspect of the novel, shaping the characters and their motivations.
The Theme of Nihilism
The theme of nihilism is prevalent throughout Graham Greene’s novel, “England Made Me.” The main character, Anthony Farrant, embodies this philosophy as he navigates through life with a sense of apathy and detachment. Farrant’s nihilistic beliefs are rooted in his disillusionment with society and his own lack of purpose. He sees the world as meaningless and devoid of any inherent value. This worldview is reflected in his relationships with others, as he struggles to form meaningful connections and often resorts to manipulation and deceit. The theme of nihilism in “England Made Me” serves as a commentary on the emptiness and futility of modern life, and the consequences of a society that values material success above all else.
The Portrayal of Women
In “England Made Me,” Graham Greene portrays women as objects of desire and manipulation. The female characters in the novel are often seen as passive and submissive, existing solely for the pleasure and convenience of the male characters. For example, the protagonist, Anthony Farrant, views his lover, Kate, as a possession to be controlled and used for his own purposes. Similarly, the wealthy widow, Mrs. Barton Trafford, is portrayed as a vulnerable and naive woman who is easily swayed by the charm and manipulation of the male characters.
Greene’s portrayal of women in “England Made Me” reflects the patriarchal society of the time in which the novel was written. Women were often seen as inferior to men and were expected to conform to traditional gender roles. However, Greene’s depiction of women also highlights the power dynamics at play in relationships between men and women. The male characters in the novel use their social and economic status to exert control over the female characters, highlighting the unequal power dynamic between men and women in society.
Overall, the portrayal of women in “England Made Me” serves as a commentary on the gender roles and power dynamics of the time. While the novel may be criticized for its sexist portrayal of women, it also sheds light on the societal pressures and expectations placed on women during this period.
The Relevance of ‘England Made Me’ Today
The themes explored in Graham Greene’s novel “England Made Me” are still relevant today, despite the book being published in 1935. The novel delves into the corrupting influence of wealth and power, as well as the struggle for identity and belonging in a society that values material success above all else. These themes are still prevalent in modern society, where the gap between the rich and poor continues to widen and the pressure to conform to societal norms can be overwhelming. Additionally, the novel’s exploration of the consequences of unchecked capitalism and the exploitation of workers is particularly relevant in today’s globalized economy. Overall, “England Made Me” remains a thought-provoking and timely read that offers valuable insights into the complexities of modern society.