Agent Running in the Field

In what ways does the badminton motif evolve throughout the narrative as representative of The Manipulation of Truth? To what extent does this evolution parallel the deterioration of trust between characters?

Consider Florence’s resignation from the Service alongside Ed’s espionage. How do these different forms of institutional resistance reflect generational approaches to political disillusionment?

Through its portrayal of Brexit and Trump-era politics, how does the novel explore the relationship between democratic institutions and intelligence operations?

In what ways does Nat’s relationship with his daughter, Steff, serve as a counterpoint to the novel’s exploration of institutional loyalty and personal truth?

This is le Carré’s final novel. How are the themes of this text similar to the themes of his other texts? How do they differ?

Compare and contrast Ed and Nat as representative of the novel’s thematic engagement with Political Idealism Versus Pragmatic Reality. How does the novel’s treatment of Ed’s political idealism nuance the novel’s discussion of patriotism and treason?

What function does the Haven substation serve in the novel’s exploration of institutional decay and reform? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Through the revelation of Operation Jericho, how does the novel critique the relationship between Western democratic institutions and their covert operations?