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A Brave New World By Bernard Marx

Decent Essays

A Brave New World contains numerous well-developed and complex characters, yet the most compelling one, by far, is Bernard Marx. While not likable, per say, Bernard’s characterization and development are very thought-provoking and intricate. From his introduction to the novel, Bernard stands out in the midst of the monotonous World State. Much like his namesake, Karl Marx, Bernard too finds himself at conflict with society, though the nature of his conflict shifts as the novel progresses. During the first few chapters, Bernard seems to be at odds with society, due to its treatment of women, sex, and its own people. The pinnacle of Bernard’s rebellion is in the second section of the sixth chapter, where the Director of Hatcheries and Conditioning threatens to send Bernard to Iceland, as a punishment of his subversive behaviors. Instead of teaching him a lesson like the Director intended, Bernard is thrilled to have finally stood up to ‘the man’. “For Bernard left the room with a swagger, exulting, as he banged the door behind him, in the thought that he stood alone, embattled against the order of things; elated by the intoxicating consciousness of his individual significance and importance.’ (p. 66) After the second part of chapter six, Bernard’s facade falters, until by the eleventh chapter it completely falls apart. Once Bernard confronts the Director in the Fertilizing Room, John becomes the center of attention as ‘all upper-caste London was wild to see this delicious

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