Abstract
This presentation explores the theme of adultery and betrayal in two 1940s novels: Evelyn Waugh's Brideshead Revisited and Eric Ambler's Journey Into Fear. With the aid of research on marriage and relationships during the two world wars, it is concluded that the lovers in both novels committed adultery or were unfaithful to their partners for reasons were dependent on the time period of the novel’s plot in relation to World War II. In a pre-war episode within Brideshead Revisited, Charles and Julia commit adultery order to realize a deeper meaning in their lives, while Graham betrays his wife in order to escape the perils of the world war in Journey Into Fear. Without the immediate dangers of WWII, the characters of Brideshead Revisited find themselves longing for excitement and fulfillment and therefore seek out extramarital affairs. In contrast, the protagonist of Journey Into Fear pursues exotic dancer Josette to distract himself from the perils of the war.
Recommended Citation
Phillips, Ashley
(2011)
"The Infidelity Issue in Brideshead Revisited and Journey into Fear,"
Proceedings of GREAT Day: Vol. 2010, Article 26.
Available at:
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/proceedings-of-great-day/vol2010/iss1/26