Comparison and similarities of different ideologies
One main theme of Good Omens is the comparison and similarities of different ideologies. Throughout the novel, this idea is shown through the interactions between Aziraphale and Crowley, who are on opposing sides, Heaven and Hell. Despite having differing ideologies, the two have become close to one another, choosing to interact with each other despite this not being permitted. Although the two are from differing sides with vastly different viewpoints, they don’t have any major conflicts with each other and aren’t vastly different in their own personal beliefs. As Armageddon approaches, both of them take an objective standpoint, choosing to benefit the Earth rather than their own sides, and arguing together in spite of being on different sides, pointing out the underlying flaws in the concept of having a side that will ‘win’. This argument and concept suggests the idea that people from different viewpoints aren’t necessarily different people, and that often conflict between people of these viewpoints can be pointless.
This idea can be read as the authors’ commentaries about conflicts in society and the pointlessness of picking a certain side over another. Throughout the novel, there are many passages analysing human behaviour and nature, comparing people of different viewpoints. These passages all seem to have an underlying theme of the pointlessness of these exchanges, and how humans, despite differences, can all be very much the same. Thus, the interactions and behaviour of Aziraphale and Crowley could very well represent these ideas and display how different groups can be united.
Free will
Another major theme of Good Omens is the concept of free will and how previous experiences can shape a person’s perceptions. Adam, the antichrist, is used to convey this message. Adam Young also displays this same idea. Due to the mix-up of the babies in the Satanic church, Adam was raised in a normal household with no unopposed views. Thus, he didn’t use his powers for the good of Hell, which was his original purpose, but rather, used them to benefit himself and his human friends, the Them. Despite being created for the sole purpose of starting the Apocalypse, when it comes time for him to do it he doesn’t want to, due to not being ever persuaded towards Hell’s viewpoint. Therefore, instead of becoming a symbol of ‘good’ or ‘bad’, he simply becomes human and doesn’t fall under any particular standpoint; all he wants is for life to continue as normal. He points out the flaws in the concept of the Armageddon, stating in his argument, "I don't see what's so triflic about creating people as people and then gettin' upset 'cos they act like people," which further reaffirms his objective point of view and advocacy for free will.
This idea shows how being exposed to certain viewpoints can affect the ability to create original opinions and can lessen your amount of free will. Adam is an example of someone who has been brought up totally neutral, and therefore has the free will to express opinions that are entirely his own. Therefore, it can be conceded that upbringing can affect opinions and obstruct from true originality and freedom.
Preconceived ideas about good and evil
Good Omens also analyses and breaks preconceived notions of good and evil. Members of Heaven and Hell are frequently mentioned and shown throughout the novel, a namely example being Crowley and Aziraphale. Despite the inclinations of the groups they work for, they themselves are not wholly evil or wholly good. Crowley, for instance, is not one that would be considered traditionally evil and unpleasantly inconveniences people rather than causing them any serious harm. Aziraphale, on the other hand, while still not considered to be a ‘bad’ person, is not the epitome of good and instead can often be perceived as fussy or testy. This shows that what is truly considered good and evil isn’t set in stone and can often be different than what we would traditionally think.
This idea shows us that stereotypes about certain ideologies or concepts are not always true, and that people all have different preconceived notions about certain subjects, which often can be subjective. What one may think about a certain subject, another may disagree with - all things, including the flimsy view of what good and evil really are, are always subjective. Good and evil are merely concepts and Good Omens demonstrates this, showing us examples of them in ways we would not expect, causing us to reevaluate our worldviews and reconsider our preconceived perceptions.
