Examples Of Marxism In Atonement

Class barriers and stereotypes are integral to the development and interactions of characters within Ian McEwan’s Atonement (2001). Marxist critical theory is therefore crucial to explaining and expanding on the reasoning behind major events and interactions in the novel. The pivotal idea of Marxist theory that “modern society…is splitting into two great classes: Bourgeoisie and Proletariat” (Marx, 2), and the ‘upper class’ and ‘lower class’ struggle is a motivator between a majority of the novel’s conflict. Marxism as a critical approach, is able to explain Briony’s unwavering belief in Robbie’s guilt, Cecilia’s conflict between romantic interest and class boundaries, and Paul Marshall’s ability to remain blameless. Through using Marxism,

Marxist Theorist, Ignacio Dobles from the University of Costa Rica proposes “ideology is rooted in social processes’ (Dobles, 408), which is beneficial in explaining how Briony considers Robbie of lesser value due to her social upbringing. Robbie Turner had from the outset been characterised as nothing more than “son of a humble cleaning lady” (p.38) or a “hobby of Jack’s” (p. 151) due to the Tallis Patriarch’s sponsorship of Robbie at Cambridge. Each member of the Tallis family added to the perpetuating stereotype that ended up condemning him, with Emily Tallis in particular labelling Robbie nothing more than Jack’s ‘levelling principle’ (p. 151). All of this pushed the notion of class boundaries onto the impressionable “darling Briony” (p. 65). The scene described at the fountain was full of underlying romantic tension and frustration felt by Cecilia and Robbie, yet Briony interpreted the situation as if “her sister was in some way threatened and would need her help.” (p. 114). Briony’s stubborn nature coupled with her intrinsic belief of social hierarchy resulted in her repeatedly assuming Robbie’s’ guilt, labelling him nothing more than “a maniac” (p. 119). Without Marxism’s ability to explain class differences it would be difficult to understand how Briony misunderstood the situation so greatly. Karl Marx believed that ‘the accumulation of

Capitalism is defined as “the investment of money in the expectation of making a profit” (Fulcher, 2), and Paul Marshal’s role as the “chocolate millionaire” (p.26), manufacturer and producer of ‘Ammo Bars’ is an example of this. Paul was able to dominate the market, as “the factory owner gets the profit from selling the object” (Klages, 127). This dominance and money, provided Paul Marshall control over those around him and an escape from repercussions for his actions. He repeatedly attacked and sexually assaulted the fifteen-year old Lola, to the extent that he had “scratches on (his) face” (p.324), and “poor…vulnerable” (p. 324) Lola was left with bruise like marks on her arms. Marshall is not a character to be admired, rather Briony focalises on how his nature is to be perceived as arrogant, ambitious and a ruthless man. Briony as narrator provides readers with multiple clues as to the identity of the attacker of the teenaged Lola, even introducing Marshall as having a “cruel face” (p.58). Robbie is singled out as a suspect due to his interactions with Cecilia, perceived as volatile and dangerous due to his lower class standing, however Paul Marshall is never considered a suspect in the assault of