Implied Meanings and Social Values in Agatha Christie's 'And Then There Were None'

Introduction

The classic mystery novel 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie is a masterpiece that has captivated readers for decades. The intricate plot revolves around ten guests, all prominent and wealthy individuals, who are lured to a remote island under false pretenses. As the novel unfolds, a series of murders occur, each corresponding to one of the Ten Commandments carved onto a wooden board. Under the guise of 'U.N. Owen', a mysterious and relentless killer pursues justice, meting out retribution to individuals who managed to escape legal repercussions for their morally reprehensible actions.

Implied Meanings Through the Characters and Plot

The implication of social and moral values in 'And Then There Were None' is profound. The guests, all of whom are rich or prominent people, represent various social and economic classes within society. The fact that they are all literally 'got away with murder' highlights the intricate balance of justice and societal norms. These characters symbolize different aspects of society, from corrupt politicians to greedy businessmen, all of whom have evaded justice due to their wealth, power, or social status.

U.N. Owen, the vigilante who imposes judgment, represents a form of 'second chance' justice where the law and legal system are deemed bereft or inadequate. This character serves as a stark critique of the societal and judicial structures that allow wrongdoing to go unpunished. Through his actions, Agatha Christie challenges the reader to question the efficacy of the legal system in upholding moral and ethical standards.

Discussion on Social Justice and Universal Morality

The novel delves into the concept of social justice, posing significant ethical and moral questions. The commandment-related murders underscore the idea of retributive justice, where the punishment is proportional to the severity of the crime. By making moral judgment the basis for each murder, Agatha Christie emphasizes the importance of individual and collective accountability. This reflects universal moral principles that govern societal behavior and the need for a balance between personal rights and communal responsibilities.

Furthermore, the novel explores the theme of justice and its relationship with morality. Unlike the legal system, where justice is meted out according to pre-determined rules and laws, U.N. Owen's brand of justice is more fluid and subjective. His actions are based on an intuitive and moral assessment of each character's complicity. This raises important questions about the extent to which moral judgment can serve as an alternative or supplement to legal justice in a society.

Social Commentary Through the Characters

Each of the characters who lose their lives in the novel represents different aspects of society and its darker underbelly. For instance, Emily Brent, the wealthy and influential hostess, symbolizes the corrupt and self-serving elements of society. Miss Brent’s infidelity and gossip reflect the moral decay that can fuel avarice and betrayal. Her death serves as a warning against such behaviors, suggesting that once you abandon your moral compass, you invite retribution.

Another character, Roger H overdose, is introduced as a seemingly innocuous but morally dubious businessman. His involvement in a fraudulent scheme reflects the pervasive nature of economic exploitation within society. His death further underscores the notion that those who engage in corrupt practices may face severe repercussions.

The Role of Media and Public Opinion

Another key theme in 'And Then There Were None' is the role of media and public opinion in shaping social values and moral judgments. U.N. Owen uses the press to his advantage, creating a narrative of righteous retribution that resonates with a public increasingly disillusioned with traditional justice systems. This highlights how media and public opinion can influence and drive social change, even in the absence of formal legal structures. It also underlines the power of narrative in shaping societal values and moral codes.

Conclusion

Agatha Christie's 'And Then There Were None' is a rich tapestry of implied meanings and social values. Through her intricate plot and characters, Christie explores complex questions about justice, moral judgment, and the role of society in enforcing its norms. The vigilante, U.N. Owen, serves as both a critique and a commentary on the inefficiencies of the legal system and the potential for individual moral agency to effect change. As readers, we are encouraged to reflect on the importance of moral accountability and the balance between personal freedom and communal responsibility.

References

Christie, A. (1939). And Then There Were None. London: Collins.