The Coronation (novel)

The Coronation is a historical novel written by Evelyn Waugh, published in 1950. It forms the second book of his trilogy Sword of Honour, which chronicles the experiences of Guy Crouchback, a Catholic Englishman, during World War II.

The novel follows Guy as he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the war effort. It depicts his service in the Royal Corps of Halberdiers, including his deployment to Dakar and his subsequent transfer to a commando unit. Through Guy's experiences and observations, Waugh satirizes the bureaucratic incompetence, moral ambiguity, and often absurd nature of military life.

A central theme is the contrast between the idealism with which Guy initially entered the war and the reality he encounters. He seeks to find honor and meaning in the conflict, but witnesses self-serving behavior, strategic blunders, and the erosion of traditional values.

The title, The Coronation, has multiple layers of meaning. On a literal level, it refers to the eventual coronation of a new leader (implied to be postwar ideals), but also ironically reflects the crowning of mediocrity and the flawed nature of human endeavors during wartime. It also subtly alludes to the religious significance of coronation and its potential for symbolic redemption or renewal.

The novel is known for its sharp wit, satirical observations, and its exploration of themes such as duty, disillusionment, and the clash between tradition and modernity. It is considered a significant work of 20th-century English literature and a key part of Waugh's broader examination of faith and society.