James Bond: the UK's Monomyth


I went to see the new James Bond film, Spectre last week. It looked great with lots of excellent location shots. Some exciting set pieces with helicopters and aeroplanes and trains. In fact the train scene took me back to From Russia with Love. And the Austrian section was rather like For Your Eyes only.

Actually it all seemed quite familiar. That is the idea with 007 movies. He represents something deeper than just an action hero. With his aristocratic bearing, defending the state he is much more than might superficially appear. James Bond is one of the few characters we have in current fiction that represents the UK's monomyth: the single story the connects our legends into one recognisable form. In the USA it is the cowboy/private detective/superhero. Other cultures have their, usually based on history and religion and folktales.

The UK's comes from legends we all know: King Arthur and Robin Hood. Historical figures like Henry V and Admiral Nelson. The Duke of Wellington and Winston Churchill. Fictional characters such as Sherlock Holmes,  Dr Who and, of course, James Bond.

But what are the main characteristics of all of these?

Firstly there is the noble background, whether through aristocratic birth or education. Secondly there is the wish to save the country - to rescue Britain or England or the UK or earth in Dr Who's case. And finally there is the lack of material interest. Despite being regal or important these are people who don't value wealth and power for power's sake. These are knights sworn to protect the ordinary citizens. Kings who will make England great again.

So the Bond films tap into this. They let us share the belief that our warriors will protect us in times of trouble. That whatever the world throws at us there will always be a hero out there to save us.

It's a comforting thought. Even though it's not true...