The Arena (novel)
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founded | 1961 |
| Founder | William Haggard |
| Products | Suspense novel |
The Arena is a suspense novel from 1961 authored by British writer William Haggard. It was released in the United Kingdom by Cassell and in the United States through Washburn. This book marks Haggard's third installment out of 21 featuring Colonel Charles Russell, who leads the clandestine Security Executive, a government counter-intelligence organization inspired by MI5. Operating within the corridors of Whitehall, Russell maneuvers through political influence reminiscent of the environment portrayed in C. P. Snow's Corridors of Power. Consistent with Haggard's style, the novel blends thrilling suspense with intricate government concerns over challenges to Britain's international dominance, alongside a stark depiction of financial activities in the City of London. Like Venetian Blind, this work is driven by its characters and presents a somber narrative.
Plot
Rather than serving as a conventional lead, Colonel Russell functions more as a steady presence anchoring the storyline through his covert operations. Haggard characterized his novels as suspenseful tales set against a backdrop of global politics, where Russell provides continuity while other characters propel the plot forward.
In The Arena, Russell takes on a more prominent role compared to previous books; his deputy, Major Robert Mortimer, appears frequently and often questions Russell's judgments. The storyline revolves around a modest British enterprise developing advanced radar and electronics technology, which is funded by a traditional private bank located in the City. A merciless Swiss financier attempts to gain control by acquiring the bank and subsequently the company. The British government assigns Russell the mission to thwart this aggressive takeover.
Central to the narrative are key players from family-run private banks crucial to the unfolding events, emphasizing social rivalries that escalate into fatal outcomes. The Italian background of one family shifts parts of the action between England and Italy, culminating in a deadly conclusion on Capri. While Russell successfully fulfills his government's objectives, the resolution entails considerable human sacrifice, underscoring the story's bleak and cynical atmosphere.
Reception and/or Appraisal
Certain critics in England offered favorable reviews:
New Statesman: Could hardly be bettered in its chosen field. Nicholas Blake, Sunday Telegraph: Fulfills one's worst apprehensions about big-business morality. Warmly recommended.