Ashenden · Question
How does Ashenden develop the theme of Futility and Cynicism?
Answer
Ashenden by W. Somerset Maugham develops Futility and Cynicism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Ashenden's detached, ironic observations—such as noting that good work goes unrewarded and that 'no one reads' his reports—reflect a cynical view of war's grand narratives, where individual efforts often seem pointless or absurd.
Ashenden's cynical reflections on patriotism and the absurdity of spy plots contrast with his reluctant engagement in Miss King's possible secret, underscoring a sense of futility.
Ashenden's cynical view of the mission and the grim fate awaiting the Greek spy reflects a sense of futility in war.
The mission ends in a tragic error—killing the wrong man—highlighting the futility and grim absurdity of espionage work.
Evidence in the book
- III: Miss King
Ashenden's cynical reflections on patriotism and the absurdity of spy plots contrast with his reluctant engagement in Miss King's possible secret, underscoring a sense of futility.
- The Dark Woman
Ashenden's cynical view of the mission and the grim fate awaiting the Greek spy reflects a sense of futility in war.
- VI: The Greek
The mission ends in a tragic error—killing the wrong man—highlighting the futility and grim absurdity of espionage work.
- VIII: Giulia Lazzari
Ashenden's detached observation of Giulia's life and her failed escape highlight the futility and cynicism of espionage.
- XIII: The Flip of a Coin
Ashenden reflects on the triviality of human endeavors—love, intrigue, success—against the vastness of the stars and the grim reality of war, leading to a coin flip as a decision-making tool.
- XIV: A Chance Acquaintance
Ashenden's wry comment about Edmund Burke's audience being dead reflects his cynical view of grand rhetoric and the seeming pointlessness of the journey.
- XVI: Mr. Harrington’s Washing
Ashenden's disillusionment with Russian politics and the futility of Mr. Harrington's business mission reflect a growing cynicism.
