# Class and Cultural Clash in Ashenden

> Theme guide for Ashenden by W. Somerset Maugham.

The book contrasts British upper-class decorum (Sir Herbert Witherspoon) with the flamboyant, honor-driven code of the Hairless Mexican, and highlights tensions between nationalities, such as the English disdain for foreign 'scoundrels' and the exoticism of Russian intelligentsia.

## Where it surfaces

- [IV: The Hairless Mexican](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/chapters/iv-the-hairless-mexican): The contrast between Ashenden's understated British demeanor and the Mexican's extravagant, passionate style underscores cultural differences and class tensions within the espionage world.
- [VII: A Trip to Paris](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/chapters/vii-a-trip-to-paris): R.'s shyness and awkwardness in the fashionable restaurant reveal his discomfort with luxury and high society, contrasting with Ashenden's ease.
- [Behind the Scenes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/chapters/xi-behind-the-scenes): The contrast between the polished, formal British ambassador Sir Herbert and the blunt, hearty American ambassador Mr. Schäfer highlights cultural and diplomatic differences.
- [XII: His Excellency](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/chapters/xii-his-excellency): The vulgarity of Alix versus the refinement of Yvonne highlights class tensions; the ambassador's world of diplomacy contrasts with the sordid affair.
- [XIV: A Chance Acquaintance](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/chapters/xiv-a-chance-acquaintance): The contrast between Ashenden's cynical, world-weary British sensibility and Mr. Harrington's earnest, formal American patriotism underscores cultural and temperamental differences.
- [XVI: Mr. Harrington’s Washing](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/chapters/xvi-mr-harrington-s-washing): The contrast between Mr. Harrington's practical American pragmatism and the Russian intellectualism and chaos underscores cultural misunderstandings.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/themes/class_and_cultural_clash
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/ashenden_se/themes