Eyeless in Gaza

Programme (2024/25)

The novel “Eyeless in Gaza” explores complex themes such as personal transformation, moral and philosophical dilemmas, and the search for meaning in life. The title of the book is a reference to a line from John Milton’s “Samson Agonistes”.

The novel follows the life of Anthony Beavis, a privileged and idealistic young man who grows up in an English country estate. Beavis’s life takes him through various stages, including his education at Oxford, his experiences in the First World War, and his post-war life as he navigates the social and political changes of the time.

One of the central themes of “Eyeless in Gaza” is the search for individual enlightenment and a sense of purpose. Beavis undergoes a transformation from a naive idealist to a more self-aware and spiritually inclined person. The novel explores his intellectual and emotional journey as he questions his earlier beliefs and confronts the complexities of human existence.

Huxley weaves a narrative that incorporates elements of philosophy, psychology, and social commentary. The novel also delves into the political and social issues of the era, including the aftermath of World War I, the rise of fascism, and the challenges of living in a changing world.

“Eyeless in Gaza” is known for its introspective and philosophical nature, as it grapples with questions of ethics, morality, and the pursuit of inner peace and enlightenment. It’s considered one of Huxley’s more introspective and psychologically probing works, exploring the inner lives and struggles of its characters.

Reading for next lecture

– After Many a Summer