Brave New World

In Section 4 of Aldous Huxley's Brave New World, Bernard continues to be characterized as a more selfish man than the rebellious outcast portrayed in Section 1. As his popularity grows due to his friendship with John, Bernard becomes addicted to the society that previously rejected him. Even the soma, which he had previously rejected in preference of real thought, is taken often by him. This seems to bring out the worst in the character. When John creates a scene at the soma distribution, Bernard is so reluctant to help, even when he thinks his friends lives may be in danger. His ultimate betrayal, however, occurs when the three friends are taken in to custody. When talk of exile comes up, Bernard immediately throws his friends under the bus. He yells, "I haven't done anything. It was the others, I swear it was the others" (226). Later he feels ashamed at his selfish actions of betrayal and apologizes. However, this does not change that it occurred and drives the final name in his characterization. He is a pathetic, desperate character who is unable to grasp the reality of true happiness, despite his potential for rebellion at the beginning.