Comparative Study Summary – The Big Sleep
General Vision and Viewpoint
The novel presents a dark and cynical world, where crime, corruption, and deception are deeply ingrained in society. Justice is rarely served, and the powerful use their wealth to avoid consequences. However, through Philip Marlowe, Chandler offers a small sense of hope—while he cannot fix a broken system, he maintains his own moral code. The ending reinforces the idea that corruption will continue, leaving the reader with a pessimistic but realistic vision of society.
Cultural Context
Set in 1930s Los Angeles, the novel reflects a society shaped by corruption, wealth inequality, gender roles, and a flawed justice system. The rich escape responsibility, while the working class struggle for survival. Women are often depicted as manipulative and dangerous, reflecting gender attitudes of the time. Crime is not seen as an exception but as a way of life, with police and criminals operating within the same system.
Theme or Issue
The novel explores themes of crime and corruption, morality, power, deception, and gender roles. Marlowe navigates a world where truth is hidden, and everyone has something to lose. The justice system is weak, and money dictates power, but Marlowe’s refusal to be bought or manipulated highlights the importance of personal integrity in a corrupt world