Their love is also contrasted with the love of other characters, such as Mr. and Mrs. Benn, who have a troubled but enduring marriage; Lord Darlington and Miss Kenton’s aunt, who have a brief but passionate affair; and Mr. Lewis and Mrs. Wakefield, who have a casual and open relationship. The novel shows the different forms and outcomes of love, as well as the joys and sorrows that it brings.
Loyalty
The novel examines the concept of loyalty, especially in relation to one’s employer and one’s country. Stevens is loyal to Lord Darlington, whom he serves faithfully and obediently, even when he disagrees or doubts his actions. Stevens believes that loyalty is a virtue and a duty, and that it is the mark of a great butler.
However, his loyalty also blinds him to the moral and political consequences of Lord Darlington’s involvement in Nazi appeasement, and prevents him from pursuing his own happiness with Miss Kenton. Stevens’ loyalty is also contrasted with the loyalty of other characters, such as Miss Kenton, who leaves Lord Darlington after he fires the Jewish maids; Mr. Cardinal, who exposes Lord Darlington’s treachery; and Mr. Lewis, who criticizes Lord Darlington’s loyalty to Germany. The novel questions the limits and the costs of loyalty, as well as the conflicts and the choices that it entails.
Dignity
The novel explores the notion of dignity, especially in relation to one’s profession and one’s self. Stevens defines dignity as the ability to maintain a professional and composed demeanor, even in the face of adversity and emotion. He considers dignity as the essence and the goal of his profession, and as the quality that distinguishes a great butler from a mediocre one.
However, his dignity also isolates him from his own feelings and opinions, and makes him appear cold and aloof to others. His dignity also prevents him from expressing his love for Miss Kenton, and from admitting his mistakes and regrets.
Stevens’ dignity is also contrasted with the dignity of other characters, such as Miss Kenton, who shows her emotions and opinions freely; Lord Darlington, who loses his dignity and reputation after his involvement in Nazi appeasement; and Mr. Farraday, who has a relaxed and humorous attitude towards life. The novel challenges the meaning and the value of dignity, as well as the balance and the harmony that it requires.
Reception
The novel received critical acclaim and commercial success upon its publication. It was praised for its subtle and elegant style, its complex and nuanced characters, and its exploration of the themes of love, loyalty, and dignity. It was also admired for its historical and political insights, as well as its psychological and moral depth.
