Why does the relationship between Aziz and Fielding fail?
A Passage to India is a notable literary work by E. M. Forster. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of A Passage to India.
Answer
Why does the friendship/relationship between Aziz and Fielding fail? [NU: 2015, 17, 20] ★★★
Or, Examine and estimate the Aziz–Fielding relationship in “A Passage to India.”
E. M. Forster’s (1879–1970) “A Passage to India” (1924) shows many relationships under the Raj. The most important is between Dr. Aziz and Cyril Fielding. At first, they are true friends. But misunderstandings and politics break their bond.
Friendship through Trust: Aziz meets Fielding at the college. Fielding is the English Principal. He respects Indians. Aziz respects his honesty. He even says to Adela,
“Try seeing Indians.”
Fielding defends Aziz at the trial. He risks his job. Aziz recognizes him as his true friend. Their bond begins with trust and courage.
Misunderstanding after the Trial: After Aziz’s release, problems start. Adela admits her mistake. Fielding helps her. Aziz thinks Fielding supports Adela against him. Mahmoud Ali also suspects Fielding. Aziz feels betrayed. Their trust breaks. Forster writes that people were,
“Sinking themselves in their community.”
Race and pride separate them.
Final Separation at Mau: Years later, Aziz meets Fielding again at Mau. By then, Fielding had married Stella, Mrs. Moore’s daughter. Aziz wrongly thinks he married Adela. Anger returns. Aziz says India and England cannot be friends till India is free. At the end, when they ride together, nature itself answers,
“No, not yet… No, not there.”
Their friendship cannot survive under the Raj.
Aziz and Fielding’s friendship begins with trust. It breaks with suspicion. It ends with politics. Aziz, Fielding, Adela, Mahmoud Ali, Stella, and Mrs. Moore all play a part. Forster shows that true friendship is impossible under British rule.