Atonement by definition is the satisfaction, reparation, or expiation given for an injury or wrong. Hanks (1994). This is the main theme that weaves throughout the novel by McEwan. McEwan has constructed the novel in three parts and a final coda each aiding to the climax of the book and the meaning of his title. The novel is set initially in the mid-thirties. Young Briony Tallis, reports an incident that has come from a fabrication of an earlier situation she had witnessed. Atonement tells the story of much more than one single act of atonement with Briony repenting her crime and it’s repercussions for six decades until 1999 when she finds a type of absolution.
On a sweltering day during the summer of 1935, the wealthy Tallis family are preparing for their guests to arrive. Emily, the Tallis matriarch, is introduced bed …show more content…
We find that Cecilia has alienated herself from her family and awaits Robbie’s return. This short part of the book gives us an insight into the short lived love of Robbie and Cecilia. We are shown their only meeting years after that fateful night and how they have agreed to wait for one another, ‘You are my dearest one. My reason for life.’ McEwan (2001). Part three introduces Briony as a student nurse during the blitz in London. Briony’s chosen path in life appears as a sign of remorse as she declines her place in Cambridge. Cecilia describes her as paying a penance. This makes much sense as Briony has come across in the novel so far as a precocious intellect whose creative mind would not fit well in a hospital setting. With no avail of a response from her sister, Briony arrives on Cecilia’s doorstep. As they become somewhat re-acquainted with one another, Robbie steps into the room. Briony leaves her sisters rented flat with a list of things she must do for them. She must write her atonement. This would be last she would see of
On a sweltering day during the summer of 1935, the wealthy Tallis family are preparing for their guests to arrive. Emily, the Tallis matriarch, is introduced bed …show more content…
We find that Cecilia has alienated herself from her family and awaits Robbie’s return. This short part of the book gives us an insight into the short lived love of Robbie and Cecilia. We are shown their only meeting years after that fateful night and how they have agreed to wait for one another, ‘You are my dearest one. My reason for life.’ McEwan (2001). Part three introduces Briony as a student nurse during the blitz in London. Briony’s chosen path in life appears as a sign of remorse as she declines her place in Cambridge. Cecilia describes her as paying a penance. This makes much sense as Briony has come across in the novel so far as a precocious intellect whose creative mind would not fit well in a hospital setting. With no avail of a response from her sister, Briony arrives on Cecilia’s doorstep. As they become somewhat re-acquainted with one another, Robbie steps into the room. Briony leaves her sisters rented flat with a list of things she must do for them. She must write her atonement. This would be last she would see of