Chapter 2: Key Themes
English Lit: AQA A Level Atonement - Specification B, topic 2.2.2
Key Themes in Chapter 2
Cecilia is the focalizer of the narrative in Chapter 2. The breaking of the vase is a moment of foreshadowing. The difference in social class between Robbie and Cecilia is emphasised.
Narrative viewpoint
- Cecilia is the focalizer of the narrative in Chapter 2.
- McEwan creates a different narrative voice from Chapter 1.
- Cecilia is sharply observant (e.g. “she thought she saw a touch of irritation" in Robbie’s eyes) but also insecure in herself, shown by her questioning her own behaviour (“Had she sounded condescending?”) and by confused emotions concerning her relationship with Robbie.
Symbolism of the vase
- The breaking of the vase can be seen as a foreshadowing of future damage to Robbie and Cecilia’s relationship and to the wider fortunes of the Tallis family.
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Allusion to Clarisa
- Cecilia and Robbie briefly discuss Samuel Richardson’s novel, Clarissa (1748), in which the heroine is seduced and raped by the villain, Robert Lovelace.
- The allusion acts as another form of foreshadowing of events to come in Atonement.
Social class: Robbie & Cecilia
- The difference in social class between Cecilia (upper-middle) and Robbie (lower-working class) is another cause of tension between Cecilia and Robbie which complicates their feelings for each other.
- That even Briony is aware of the difference in social status between them only emphasises how class is a fundamental aspect of society in the novel.
Test yourself on Chapter 2: Key Themes
What causes tension between Robbie and Cecilia?