Chapters
Wilkie Collins' novel The Moonstone is often called as the first detective novel in English literature, but it is also a rich exploration of several significant themes. While the plot revolves around the theft of a precious diamond, the novel delves into deeper issues such as colonialism, justice and morality, greed and desire, and the nature of truth.
This study guide explores the major themes in The Moonstone and provides examples from the text to illustrate how these themes shape the narrative and contribute to its enduring appeal.
Colonialism and Imperialism
One of the central themes in The Moonstone is colonialism, particularly the British imperial practices in India during the 19th century. The story begins with the theft of the Moonstone, a sacred Indian diamond, from a temple by Colonel John Herncastle, a British officer. This act of theft represents the broader theme of colonial exploitation, where valuable resources and cultural artefacts were taken from colonised countries (including India) by imperial powers.
The diamond itself is a powerful symbol of the destructive consequences of colonialism. It is described as having a curse that follows it, bringing misfortune to anyone who possesses it outside of its rightful place. The curse can be seen as a metaphor for the moral and ethical repercussions of colonial greed.
The three Indian Brahmins who follow the diamond to England are portrayed as relentless in their quest to retrieve the stolen gem, embodying the idea of justice and retribution for colonial wrongs. Their determination contrasts sharply with the careless, greedy attitude of the British characters who seek to own or exploit the diamond for their gain.
As Gabriel Betteredge narrates, the Moonstone brings "trouble and misery to everybody who has anything to do with it," highlighting how the theft and the subsequent events are tied to the larger context of colonial power and moral consequences.
Justice and Morality
Another significant theme in The Moonstone is the pursuit of justice and the complexity of morality. Throughout the novel, the characters' sense of justice often conflicts with their personal desires and social norms. The novel raises questions about what constitutes true justice and who gets to decide it.
“The upshot of it was, that Rosanna Spearman had been a thief, and not being of the sort that get up Companies in the City, and rob from thousands, instead of only robbing from one, the law laid hold of her, and the prison and the reformatory followed the lead of the law.”
The character of Sergeant Cuff, the detective hired to solve the mystery of the stolen diamond, represents the formal legal system and its methods. However, Cuff's failure to solve the case suggests that traditional forms of justice are not always effective or adequate. His investigation is thorough and logical, but he ultimately lacks the insight to see beyond the obvious clues.
Conversely, Ezra Jennings, who is marginalised and looked down upon by society due to his appearance and background, plays a crucial role in solving the mystery. Jennings's unconventional methods and empathy for others allow him to discover the truth behind Franklin Blake's involvement in the theft, even though he operates outside the formal structures of law and order. His role in the narrative suggests that true justice may require going beyond rigid social structures and prejudices.
Additionally, the theme of justice is closely linked to morality in the novel. Characters like Rachel Verinder and Franklin Blake struggle with their own moral decisions. Rachel, for example, conceals her knowledge about the theft to protect Franklin, showing her moral complexity and loyalty, even when it appears irrational to others. This concealment also highlights how personal feelings and morality can complicate the pursuit of justice.
Greed and Desire
The themes of greed and desire are central to the novel's plot, as many characters are driven by their desire for the Moonstone.
In fact, the diamond, as a symbol of wealth and power, represents the human desire for material possession and may teach us about a desire for material riches. Throughout the story, various characters demonstrate how greed can corrupt and destroy lives.
Godfrey Ablewhite, for example, appears as a philanthropic gentleman but is ultimately revealed to be a hypocritical fraud driven by financial desperation. He steals the diamond from Franklin Blake to settle his debts, and his actions lead to his tragic demise. His story illustrates how the desire for wealth can lead to deceit, moral degradation, and ruin.
Colonel John Herncastle's initial theft of the diamond is motivated by greed and spite, and his actions set off a chain of misfortunes that affect everyone who comes into contact with the Moonstone. The diamond's allure, combined with the curse, symbolises the destructive power of unchecked desire. As Gabriel Betteredge remarks:
"The Indians don't want the diamond for themselves. It's the diamond's vengeance on the men who took it."
This idea underlines the narrative's critique of those who seek to possess something that should never have been taken in the first place.
The Nature of Truth and Knowledge
The theme of truth and knowledge is intricately woven throughout The Moonstone. The novel is structured around multiple narratives, each offering a different perspective on the events surrounding the theft. This narrative style reflects the complexity of truth and the difficulty of uncovering it, as each character's account is coloured by their biases, emotions, and limited understanding.
Franklin Blake's investigation into the theft becomes a quest for truth, not just about the diamond's disappearance, but also about his own actions and character. Franklin’s realisation that he unknowingly took the diamond while under the influence of opium challenges the notion of objective truth. It raises questions about consciousness, self-awareness, and the reliability of one's own memory.
Similarly, the character of Miss Clack, whose narrative is filled with self-righteous commentary and biassed interpretations, provides another layer to the theme of truth. Her narration shows how personal beliefs and prejudices can distort the perception of reality. The multiple perspectives provided by the various narrators emphasise that truth is often subjective and multifaceted.
Social Class and Prejudice
Social class and prejudice are also prominent themes in The Moonstone, affecting the characters' interactions and shaping their destinies. The novel portrays a rigid Victorian social structure where class and status determine one's opportunities, credibility, and moral judgement.
“Mr. Betteredge, the day is not far off when the poor will rise against the rich. I pray Heaven they may begin with him.”
Limping Lucy Yolland in Chapter XXIII
Rosanna Spearman, a former thief turned housemaid, is a key example of how class and prejudice play out in the story. Despite her efforts to reform, Rosanna is viewed with suspicion and contempt by many of the other characters due to her past and lower-class status. Her tragic end underscores the harshness of social prejudice and the limited opportunities available to those of lower social standing.
Ezra Jennings, another character who faces social exclusion, is treated with suspicion because of his mixed heritage and unconventional appearance. However, Jennings proves to be one of the most insightful and compassionate figures in the novel, highlighting Collins' critique of societal prejudices that judge individuals based on superficial qualities rather than their true character.
The Supernatural and the Unknown
Finally, the theme of the supernatural and the unknown permeates the novel, adding an element of mystery and intrigue. The Moonstone itself is associated with a curse, and its theft seems to bring misfortune to everyone involved. This sense of the supernatural serves to heighten the tension and uncertainty that surrounds the diamond.
“I know the Moonstone is her curse as well as her misfortune.”
While the curse of the Moonstone can be viewed as a product of superstition, it also symbolises the unknown consequences of human actions, especially those that involve moral wrongdoing. The presence of the three Indian guardians, who seem almost otherworldly in their determination and skill, further reinforces the idea that there are forces beyond the understanding of the British characters, forces that demand respect and retribution.
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