This paper is an analysis of Huxley's representation of evilness by the example of Maurice Spandrell, a character in his novel "Point Counter Point". Huxley constructed Spandrell as the incarnation of evilness according to the understanding of evilness as an ‘unsubstantial’ category. Here, ‘good’ and ‘evil’ are intertwined as he is represented as a paradoxical figure, namely both as a perpetrator and as a victim.
The dialectics in Spandrell’s characterisation are exemplary for the dialectics present in "Point Counter Point" and in modernism in general. Talking a closer look, "Point Counter Point" reveals Huxley’s belief in a deeper ‘truth’ that remains mysterious in its contingent existence of absence and presence.
In connection with Huxley’s understanding of ‘God’, which he lays down mainly in his book The Perennial Philosophy (1945), Huxley’s representation of evilness alias Spandrell is going to be analysed in this paper.8 There are other characters in Point Counter Point concerned with the question of God, for example, Marjorie Carling.9 However, the focus will be on Spandrell as the contemplations about good and evil concentrate around his character. Spandrell constantly tries to explain God’s absence and make his presence felt but he is disappointed again and again. In this way, he embodies the focal point of the ‘problem of evil’ in Point Counter Point. The root of evil, in Spandrell’s case, can be found in his ‘individual’ psychology. With the help of Spandrell, Huxley reflects on the origin of evil, in particular, on how evilness can develop in a person’s life.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Dialectics of Good and Evil in Point Counter Point
- Defining Evil
- A Literary History of the 'Problem of Evil'
- Aldous Huxley's Definition of Evil
- Spandrell as the Incarnation of Evilness
- Spandrell as a Perpetrator
- Spandrell as a Loner
- Spandrell as a Murderer
- Spandrell as a Torturer
- Spandrell as a Victim
- Contingency as a Precondition for Misanthropy
- Ennui, Acedia, and the Fascination of Evil
- Spandrell as a Neurotic
- Spandrell as a Perpetrator
- The Role of God in Point Counter Point
- Spandrell's Search of God
- The Significance of Spandrell's Death
- Accepting the Universe': God's 'Presence' in the Novel
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper analyzes Aldous Huxley's *Point Counter Point* (1928), focusing on the representation of evil through the character of Maurice Spandrell. The objective is to explore Huxley's understanding of evil's origins, particularly within the context of individual psychology, and its connection to his views on God, as expressed in *The Perennial Philosophy* (1945). * The nature of evil and its representation in literature. * The exploration of evil through the lens of individual psychology. * The role of God (or the lack thereof) in understanding evil. * The complexities of Spandrell's character as both perpetrator and victim. * The dialectical nature of good and evil in modern society as reflected in the novel.Chapter Summaries
1. Introduction: The Dialectics of Good and Evil in Point Counter Point: This introductory chapter establishes the context of Huxley's *Point Counter Point*, highlighting the contrasting critical reception of the novel—praised for its importance yet also criticized for its harsh portrayal of modern society. It introduces Maurice Spandrell as a key figure embodying the dialectics of evildoer and victim, and sets the stage for an analysis of Huxley's exploration of good and evil through Spandrell's character and his search for meaning in a world shaped by contingency and ennui. The chapter emphasizes Huxley's focus on individual psychology as the root of evil and positions the study within the broader context of Huxley's philosophical and religious beliefs. 2. Defining Evil: This chapter delves into the definition of evil, beginning with a literary history tracing the concept's evolution, particularly referencing the biblical portrayal of the serpent in the Garden of Eden. It then transitions to Huxley's own understanding of evil, laying the groundwork for the subsequent analysis of Spandrell's character as an embodiment of this definition. The chapter sets the stage for a nuanced examination of Spandrell's actions and motivations, framing them within a broader philosophical and literary discussion of what constitutes evil.Keywords
Aldous Huxley, Point Counter Point, Problem of Evil, Maurice Spandrell, Individual Psychology, God, Contingency, Ennui, Modern Society, Dialectics of Good and Evil, Literary Analysis.
Aldous Huxley's *Point Counter Point*: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main topic of this academic paper?
This paper analyzes Aldous Huxley's Point Counter Point (1928), focusing on the representation of evil through the character of Maurice Spandrell. It explores Huxley's understanding of evil's origins, particularly within the context of individual psychology, and its connection to his views on God, as expressed in The Perennial Philosophy (1945).
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
The key themes include the nature of evil and its representation in literature; the exploration of evil through the lens of individual psychology; the role of God (or the lack thereof) in understanding evil; the complexities of Spandrell's character as both perpetrator and victim; and the dialectical nature of good and evil in modern society as reflected in the novel.
What does the Table of Contents reveal about the paper's structure?
The Table of Contents shows a structured approach, starting with an introduction to the dialectics of good and evil in Point Counter Point. It then delves into defining evil, both generally and within Huxley's context, followed by an in-depth analysis of Spandrell as an embodiment of evil, exploring him as both perpetrator and victim. Finally, it examines the role of God in the novel and Spandrell's spiritual search.
How is the character of Maurice Spandrell portrayed in the paper?
Spandrell is presented as a central figure embodying the dialectics of evildoer and victim. The paper examines his actions, motivations, and psychological state to understand his role in Huxley's exploration of good and evil. His complexities are analyzed, considering him as both a perpetrator of evil acts and a victim of circumstance.
What is the significance of Huxley's views on God in relation to the novel's themes?
Huxley's views on God, as reflected in The Perennial Philosophy, are crucial to understanding his portrayal of evil in Point Counter Point. The paper explores how Huxley's philosophical and religious beliefs shape his depiction of Spandrell's search for meaning and the overall representation of good and evil.
What are the chapter summaries included in the preview?
The preview includes summaries for the introductory chapter (establishing the context and introducing Spandrell), and the chapter defining evil (exploring literary and Huxleyan definitions). These summaries highlight the key arguments and points of each chapter.
What keywords are associated with this academic paper?
The keywords include Aldous Huxley, Point Counter Point, Problem of Evil, Maurice Spandrell, Individual Psychology, God, Contingency, Ennui, Modern Society, Dialectics of Good and Evil, and Literary Analysis.
What is the overall objective of the academic paper?
The objective is to provide a comprehensive analysis of Aldous Huxley's portrayal of evil in Point Counter Point through the lens of individual psychology and its relation to Huxley's philosophical and religious perspectives.
- Quote paper
- Tabea Halbmeyer (Author), 2016, Maurice Spandrell and the ‘Problem of Evil’ in "Point Counter Point" (1928) by Aldous Huxley, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/926316
