The Magician · Question
How does The Magician develop the theme of Obsession and Control?
Answer
The Magician by W. Somerset Maugham develops Obsession and Control across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Haddo's obsessive pursuit of Margaret and his desire to control her through hypnotism and magical experiments highlight themes of domination, while Arthur's obsessive fear for Margaret's safety drives the plot.
Arthur's focused, practical nature borders on obsession with his work and his love; Haddo's occult studies hint at a controlling fascination.
Haddo's deliberate insults and dominating conversation demonstrate his need to control the social environment.
Haddo's manipulative and controlling behavior is detailed, from his brutal football tactics to his cruel treatment of natives during the expedition.
Evidence in the book
- I
Arthur's focused, practical nature borders on obsession with his work and his love; Haddo's occult studies hint at a controlling fascination.
- III
Haddo's deliberate insults and dominating conversation demonstrate his need to control the social environment.
- VI
Haddo's manipulative and controlling behavior is detailed, from his brutal football tactics to his cruel treatment of natives during the expedition.
- VII
Haddo's obsessive pursuit of power through alchemy and his manipulative behavior—sending flowers, feigning apology—demonstrate his need for control.
- Chapter VIII
Haddo's feigned illness and hypnotic ritual demonstrate his manipulative control over Margaret, driven by his obsession with her.
- IX
Haddo's hypnotic power over Margaret illustrates his obsessive control, reducing her to an automaton driven by an irresistible compulsion.
- X
Haddo's calculated revenge and possible supernatural manipulation of Margaret's will reflect themes of obsessive control and domination.
- Chapter XI
Arthur's obsessive love for Margaret consumes him, while Haddo exerts control over Margaret's life and behavior.
