Essay Questions

According to Hartley, what are the adverse effects of the ancient world on the contemporary world?

The realities of the contemporary world are revealed by Leo when he discovers his diary. According to Leo's diary, modern decisions are based on past morality conventions. For instance, morality expectations and social ways are outdated. The current generation is living in different at different times when people see things from a completely divergent view. The contemporary reader can connect the conventional morals to the dress code. Modern people can not restrict themselves to wearing clothes that were considered modest a century ago. The younger generation is experimental, and they want to try new things that are modest. Unfortunately, it is unbelievable that the world still expects modern generations to observe the moral rules that were practiced over one hundred years ago.

How is morality emerging as one of the main themes in ‘The Go-Between’ by Hartley?

Morality is a vital topic discussed throughout the book. The ancient society put more significance on good virtues. Leo recalls how in his childhood, people behaved according to the set societal conventions and morals. Sexuality was a sacred issue that was only discussed with those people who were ready to get married. For instance, having sex outside marriage was one of the biggest scandals and violations of the societal order. When Maria and Ted had sex outside marriage, they were considered traitors and morality violators. However, things have changed in contemporary society because young children already know about sex because they are exposed to technology which feeds them more than they can chew.

What is the symbolic meaning of aristocratic titles as discussed in the story?

Aristocratic titles were the signs of honor and respect in society. For instance, Edward was referred to as 'Viscount,' which implied that he was a significant community figure. However, as time went by, Leo recalls that the title began to lose meaning because contemporary society wants to disassociate itself from the past in all aspects. Despite the changing times, still, the older generations put more significance to aristocratic titles.