"Enduring Love" Questions

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In "Enduring Love" by Ian McEwan, the relationship between Joe and Jed is the most compelling aspect of the novel. Do you agree? 

The plot of ‘Enduring Love’ would not have turned so interesting without the relationship of Joe and Jed. This relationship is definitely the most compelling aspect of the novel ‘Enduring Love’. The role played by Jed Parry is very significant in creating the effects of psychological thriller in the novel. Jed’s psychological disorder, de Clerambault's syndrome has been utilized by McEwan to create an interest niche to the plot. It is under the evil affect of this disorder that Jed creates havoc in the lives of Joe and Clarissa.

The relationship between Joe and Jed creates the ground for testing the love and in-depth understanding between Joe and Clarissa. Though the reader considers Jed as the negative character in the plot, yet there is a realization that without her the plot would not have grown. The context of Joe and Jed are very important to the entire storyline. As Jed compels Joe to face all hurdles, including the instances of murder and madness; she adds enough excitement to the novel. There are innumerable instances when the reader faces suspicion, surprise and above all fear. The complicated relationship between these two characters adds the elements of mystery to the plot. As the author starts getting into the complicated aspects of murder and mystery; the novel turns itself into a detective genre.

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There is a parallel plot justifying 'emotional justice' followed by 'unconditional love' in the novel. On the one hand the love between Joe and Clarissa is devotional, whereas on the other hand, relationship between Joe and Jed adds elements of being obsessive, tremendously homoerotic and with continuous stalking affects. Joe gets extremely stressed by Jed’s behavior and tries every possible limit to prove his attachment with Clarissa. He loved Clarissa t the core and understands that without her he cannot have a smooth life. However, at some point of time he also offered his warm sympathetic shoulder to Jed. It ...

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