Officers and Gentlemen by Evelyn Waugh

“Officers and Gentlemen” is a novel by the British writer Evelyn Waugh, first published in 1955. It is the second book in his “Sword of Honour” trilogy, which also includes “Men at Arms” and “Unconditional Surrender.”

The novel follows the adventures of the main character, Guy Crouchback, a young British aristocrat who has recently divorced his wife and converted to Catholicism. In the midst of World War II, Guy joins the British Army, hoping to do his part for his country.

However, Guy finds himself frustrated by the bureaucracy and inefficiency of the military. He is also disillusioned by the behavior of many of his fellow officers, who seem more concerned with their own careers and social standing than with winning the war.

As the war drags on, Guy becomes increasingly disillusioned with the military and the society it represents. He begins to question his own role in the conflict and his allegiance to his country.

“Officers and Gentlemen” is a satirical novel that critiques the British military and the society it represents. Waugh uses his sharp wit and keen observation to expose the hypocrisy and corruption that he saw in the upper echelons of British society during the war.

The novel is also a meditation on the nature of duty, honor, and patriotism. Waugh asks whether it is possible to serve one’s country without compromising one’s own values and beliefs.

Overall, “Officers and Gentlemen” is a thought-provoking and entertaining novel that explores important themes and offers a searing critique of the British military and society during World War II.