Brave New World Chapter 4

Synopsis The chapter is the first of few to be divided into two separate parts. Huxley re-introduces Bernard in an elevator where he is soon joined by Lenina and the two talk of Bernard’s proposal to take Lenina to a savage reservation. Together they talk further on the roof until Lenina rushes out due to a promise she had with Henry Foster. Lenina rides a helicopter with Henry Foster after which she engages herself in a round of “Obstacle Golf”. In the second part there is heavy illustrations of Bernard’s mentality and thoughts which translates onto an outburst at an Epsilon. Soon he reaches his destination at which point he calls for his friend Helmholtz Watson. The two then talk, and Helmholtz reveals his desire to express his emotions in some greater method. Meanwhile Bernard suspects someone is listening. Following this Helmholtz thinks to himself how pitiful Bernard is.

Themes In this chapter, due to heavy social interaction, several themes are revealed. Notably the theme of conditioning and its effects are revealed through the chapter. The conditioning that have been applied to the main characters can be noted in how Lenina voices her dislike of Gammas or Bernard yelling at an Epsilon, all being implanted into their brains rather than being inspired by direct emotions or influence thus linking to the idea of being conditioned. Moreover, when Bernard yells at the Epsilon, he displays signs of an inferiority complex as he despises having to yell to have an order obeyed due to his physical qualities.

Style The chapter is divided into two halves where one contains much conversational talk and the other holds the thoughts of a character. The halves both begin by following Bernard but concludes upon the speech or thought of Lenina and Helmholtz. The first half is more descriptive.

Relationships - Bernard Marx & Lenina Crown - Bernard & Epsilon minus This is the main chapter to date where Huxley develops relationships and introduces much about this society through such. - Bernard Marx & Lenina Crown - Bernard & Epsilon minus - Henry Foster & Lenina - Bernard & Helmholtz Watson

Character Still early into the book Huxley decides to introduce a relationship between the two major characters to date, Lenina and Bernard. However, he still continues to develop his characters. In addition, Helmholtz is introduced as a person similar to Bernard in viewing himself as an individual but not isolated unlike Bernard. An insignificant figure at this point in the form of Benito Hoover is also introduced, who is described as being hairy but good- natured. Developments: How Bernard thinks of himself How Bernard thinks of others Lenina’s openness to sex Helmholtz’s desires How Helmholtz thinks of Bernard Helmholtz An Individual Accomplished and popular Unsatisfied