Moral Dilemmas Created by the German State in Fatherland - A literature essay

Literature Essay of 250 - 300 words. — 251 Words

The German Reich is responsible for the majority of the conflict and unhappiness in the people of Germany. This is portrayed through the character Xavier March. At almost every ethical and moral decision there are two options - obey the government or face the consequences. Due to this, March faces a lot of unhappiness in his life, particularly with his family and his status at work.

March’s divorce and his relationship with Pili are of a poor quality and this can be linked to March’s beliefs compared to those of his family. March has the ability to see through the propaganda of the government, and sees Germany for what Germany really is. His family, however, are a prime example of the result of propaganda. March has no passion for the government whilst his son and wife do. This heavy contrast can be seen in March’s relationship with his son. Pili has no actual interest in his father when he sees him, but has his complete attention focused on a boring ride that showcases Berlin. Pili’s relationship with his father is so bad, due to March not indulging in state activities and this being known by his son, that Pili ends up betraying March in the end and calls for March’s arrest. 

March is a non-believer and this is known to his family as well the state which is why he cannot get promoted or bond with his family. 

This is how the state creates moral dilemmas in the life of Xavier March, in the book Fatherland.