Essay Questions

Discuss the theme of patriarchy in the novel Lucky Jim.

The novel Lucky Jim is written and published in the contemporary period when women's rights are included in the constitution. Unfortunately, women's rights and equal access to opportunities remain in archives of the written constitution because the law is not practiced in actuality. Society has proved that women are smarter in every sector, including education, science, and engineering. Some women have demonstrated that they can perform better than men. However, men are in denial, and they do not want to accept that a woman is capable of outshining them. Therefore, men are still discriminating against the female gender, painting it as weak, incapable, and dependent on men. The author of this novel calls upon men to accept and appreciate women's rights so that they can compete favorably in every sector.

Why is Jim passionately against art in particular?

Jim is the protagonist of this novel, and he strongly criticizes art because he does not see its value in society. According to Jim, art is overrated, but in reality, it is not helpful. Jim's educated friends differ sharply because they consider art an essential part of human life. According to Jim's friends, art helps one to understand his identity. Examples of art include music which plays a significant role in an individual's life.

How does the author illustrate that it is inappropriate to judge a book by its cover?

Most of the characters in the novel are not what you see because their actual traits are hidden. The reader realizes that characters such as Jim and Christine do things they do not intend to or value from the bottom of their hearts. For instance, Jim is a college tutor, and he does his teaching because he is compelled to do so. Jim is not passionate about writing papers he teaches because he believes that they are worthless. Christine's public behavior is different from when she is alone and close to people who understand her. For instance, Christine is forced to behave like a lady, but she has contrary urges.