Is Hartley’s *Facial Justice* Still Relevant Today?
Facial Justice (Twentieth Century Classics)
In L. P. Hartley’s dystopian novel, *Facial Justice*, published in 1960, we enter a world obsessed with equality – a world where beauty is a crime
Hartley masterfully crafts a society where people undergo “Facial Justice,” surgical procedures to make everyone look average, eliminating envy and promoting social harmony
But at what cost?
This review delves into the thought-provoking themes of *Facial Justice* and examines its relevance in our modern world
A Glimpse into the Beta Plus Society
*Facial Justice* paints a picture of a post-apocalyptic society known as the Beta Plus State, where the concept of equality has been taken to an extreme
The novel’s protagonist, Janet, navigates this world grappling with the implications of Facial Justice and the suppression of individuality
Hartley introduces us to a society living under the constant surveillance of the ‘Dichotomy,’ grappling with the after-effects of an unnamed disaster referred to simply as “The Explosion”
Following this cataclysmic event, society has embraced a stringent pursuit of equality, leading to the implementation of Facial Justice.
The Structure and Style of Facial Justice
*Facial Justice* is structured traditionally, with chapters flowing chronologically, building upon Janet’s experiences and her growing understanding of the Beta Plus society
Hartley’s prose is elegant and precise, painting vivid pictures of the dystopian world and the internal struggles of its inhabitants
The narrative unfolds through Janet’s perspective, allowing the reader to viscerally experience the oppressive nature of the regime
While the novel’s pacing might feel slow to some modern readers, the meticulous detail with which Hartley constructs his world is crucial to the novel’s overall impact
This attention to detail strengthens the novel’s exploration of identity and conformity, building suspense and a sense of creeping unease.
Exploring the Themes of Conformity and Identity
*Facial Justice* delves into the dangers of unchecked social engineering, where conformity becomes the ultimate virtue, and individuality is viewed as a dangerous anomaly
The act of Facial Justice, the surgical alteration of faces to achieve a uniform standard of beauty, serves as the central metaphor for this societal compulsion for sameness
Through Janet’s experiences, the novel explores the complexities of identity in a world where physical appearances are no longer reflections of individual characters.
The Dichotomy, the state’s ever-present surveillance system, reinforces the suppression of individual expression, fostering an environment of fear and distrust
What’s truly remarkable about *Facial Justice* is how Hartley foreshadows the potential dangers of our current social climate
He examines the pressures of conformity, the dangers of homogenization, and the imperative need for individual expression.
Hartley’s exploration of these themes resonates even more strongly in our current times than it did in 1960, making *Facial Justice* a relevant and important read
Delving Deeper into the Beta Plus World
The Beta Plus society’s obsession with ‘averageness’ extends beyond physical appearance, permeating language and social interactions
Emotional outbursts and expressions of strong feelings are discouraged, seen as disruptive to societal harmony
Words deemed “ugly” are replaced with bland euphemisms, further stifling individuality
The novel explores themes of surveillance, censorship, and the pervasiveness of state control.
The Dichotomy and the enforcement of ‘Facial Justice’ are stark reminders of the extent to which the state seeks to control its citizens.
Hartley explores the implications of such invasive social control, inviting the reader to consider the potential ramifications of unquestioning obedience.
In *Facial Justice*, Hartley paints a picture of a society grappling with past trauma, desperately seeking to avoid repeating past mistakes
This overarching theme of trauma and its influence on social structures adds a layer of complexity to the novel, highlighting the cyclic nature of history and the fragility of societal progress.
Hartley’s profound understanding of human nature creates a cautionary tale about the seductive nature of utopian ideals and the often-unforeseen consequences of their implementation.
Modern Parallels: *Facial Justice* Today
While *Facial Justice* was written in the mid-20th century, its themes are eerily prescient in our current times
In an age of social media, image manipulation, and the pressure to conform to societal beauty standards, Hartley’s work feels strikingly contemporary
The novel sparks reflections on the nature of beauty, the pressures of social expectations, and the importance of celebrating individuality
Though the surgical procedures in *Facial Justice* are fictional, they can be seen as an extreme metaphor for our current obsession with aesthetic alteration, ranging from airbrushing and filters to cosmetic procedures.
The ubiquitous pressure to fit a mold is palpable in both Hartley’s world and our own, making Facial Justice an enduringly relevant piece of social commentary.
Consider, the halo effect, a cognitive bias where we tend to associate attractive individuals with positive traits like kindness and intelligence
In a world where beauty is manufactured and standardized like in *Facial Justice*, this halo effect is amplified, raising questions about fairness, prejudice, and the very nature of human attraction
Hartley’s book asks us to consider the cost of conformity
How much are we willing to change about ourselves to fit into society’s expectations? And what are the long-term consequences of suppressing our individualities?
A Timeless Exploration of the Human Condition
*Facial Justice* stands as a profound exploration of the human condition, challenging us to confront the inherent dangers of social control and the suppression of individual expression
Hartley’s dystopian vision serves as a stark reminder of the importance of critical thinking, the dangers of unchecked authority, and the essential need to protect individual freedoms
*Facial Justice* is a powerful and disturbing novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it
It’s a must-read for those interested in dystopian literature, social commentary, and the future of our society
A Must-Read for the Modern Age
*Facial Justice* isn’t simply a dystopian novel; it’s a powerful reflection of human nature, a cautionary tale about the dangers of societal conformity, and a celebration of the human spirit’s unwavering desire for self-expression.
It’s a must-read for those interested in dystopian fiction, social commentary, and the exploration of complex human emotions
Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Hartley’s work or a reader discovering him for the first time, *Facial Justice* is sure to provoke thought and discussion long after you’ve turned the final page.
This timeless exploration of identity in an increasingly homogenized world makes *Facial Justice* a compelling and important novel for modern readers.
It is highly recommended for anyone interested in exploring the multifaceted themes of individuality, conformity, and the ever-present tension between societal expectations and personal identity
