The Moon and Sixpence · Theme
The Meaning of Greatness
How The Moon and Sixpence develops The Meaning of Greatness.
The narrative questions what constitutes true greatness—whether it is social success, moral virtue, or the authentic expression of a unique vision—and argues that Strickland's genius lies in his uncompromising pursuit of his inner vision.
Where it surfaces
- I
The narrator distinguishes between the transient greatness of politicians and soldiers and the authentic, lasting greatness of Strickland as an artist.
- II
The narrator questions what constitutes lasting artistic greatness, contrasting Strickland's potential genius with the ephemeral success of most books and the forgotten fame of poets like George Crabbe.
- XXXVII
The narrator's detachment from the tragedy and his turn to other subjects reflects a questioning of what truly matters in life.
- XLVIII
Strickland's unrecognized genius during his lifetime contrasts with the posthumous valuation of his work, questioning how greatness is measured.
- L
The chapter contrasts Abraham's quiet contentment with Alec Carmichael's conventional success, questioning what constitutes a meaningful life.
- LVIII
Mrs. Strickland positions herself as the wife of a genius, while the narrator contrasts her conventional life with Strickland's true artistic legacy and his other son's freedom.