Examine how De Bernières explores the cruelty of war by focussing on how the relationship between the main characters disintegrates in the face of hostility and occupation.

... Examine how De Bernières explores the cruelty of war by focussing on how the relationship between the main characters disintegrates in the face of hostility and occupation. Arguably the main theme of "Captain Corelli's mandolin" is that of foreign occupation through war and its dehumanising effects on the characters of the novel. De Bernières explores the psychological and emotional development of characters as they are exposed to the extremities of war and how this affects not only their relationships, but their personality as a whole. Mandras, it can be suggested, is most adversely affected by the war, although we do not realise how severely until his violent attack on Pelagia and his resultant suicide. At the beginning of the novel, Mandras appears to be a well-adjusted individual, although upon his acquaintance with Dr. Iannis (Pelagia's father), he begins to form somewhat of a complex over his education. Pelagia is one

want to read more? →