A voluntary explorer: Raymond Chandler, Philip Marlowe, and hard -boiled engagement

John Paul Athanasourelis, Purdue University

Abstract

The present study is concerned with placing the American hard-boiled detective hero—and Raymond Chandler's Philip Marlowe in particular—within a context of a critique of American individualism. Whereas earlier and contemporary hardboiled detectives display the self-sufficient, self-aggrandizing traits of classic rugged American individualism, Marlowe possesses a more socially conscious code of ethics and a quality of reflection geared toward democratic consideration of the thoughts, beliefs, and ethics of the clients, criminals, and cops with whom he identifies. Where rugged individualist private eyes, such as Dashiell Hammett's Continental Op and Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer, cut themselves off from society and arrogate to themselves the power to judge and condemn others, Marlowe connects members of society that would normally not meet or would be irrevocably antagonistic upon meeting, and prefers negotiation among warring factions over violence. In doing so he reflects the reformation of the ideology of the autonomous individual insisted upon by John Dewey: Chandler's hero is a “new” individual inasmuch as he is willing to learn from others, valorizes cooperative action and rigorously monitors and criticizes his own actions. The introduction situates Marlowe historically and generically in the dizzyingly diverse world of crime fiction and, in answer to critics who view him as a socially aloof, quietist, even reactionary figure, emphasizes his liberal credentials. Chapter two defines Marlowe's role as a peacemaker and negotiator, and traces the history of individualism in the United States in order to understand this hero's actions. The third chapter focuses on his interactions with duly constituted law enforcement officials, underscoring the value of the private detective as a critic of corrupt law enforcement. In chapter four the focus shifts to Marlowe's dealings with members of the underworld and it problematizes the accepted (simplistic) definitions of legitimate and illegitimate activity. The conclusion reiterates the emphasis on non-violence and underscores Marlowe's ability to influence others to perform communal acts. It recognizes the use of the metaphor of social groups as anomic circles and Marlowe's willingness to work within and across them, Suggesting, in Deweyan fashion, that forging a better society depends on face-to-face association.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Palmer, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Literature|American literature

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