The Secret City · Theme
Youth and Idealism
How The Secret City develops Youth and Idealism.
Young characters like Bohun and Nina embody youthful idealism, knight-errantry, and a belief in grand possibilities, which are gradually tested and stripped away by the grim realities of war, love, and political upheaval.
Where it surfaces
- II
Bohun's youthful ambition, his belief in his own genius, and his idealistic vision of Russia and his own future exemplify the theme of youth and idealism.
- IV
Henry Bohun's romantic expectations of Petrograd clash with the harsh, gritty reality of his arrival, highlighting the disillusionment of youth.
- IX
Bohun's romantic and idealistic view of Russia and the Rasputin affair contrasts with the harsh realities, and his youthful vulnerability is emphasized.
- XII
Nina's childish joy and Grogoff's simplistic socialist creed reflect youthful idealism amid a crumbling society.
- XV
Bohun's romantic confession and Durward's advice reflect youthful idealism and its challenges.
- Chapter XVII
Nina's cynical and frivolous attitude contrasts with her underlying disappointment, illustrating the collapse of youthful idealism in the face of war and societal decay.
- XXI
Nina's impulsive actions and desperate plea for Lawrence's friendship highlight her youthful naivety and idealism, contrasted with Durward's more cynical perspective.
- Nina's Day
Nina's youth is emphasized as both a source of vitality and naivety; she sees the universe as working to fulfill her desires.
- XV
Bohun's knight-errantry and his subconscious drive to rescue Nina embody youthful idealism and the pursuit of noble causes.