In Kazuo Ishiguro's post-World War period novel The Remains of the Day, the stereotypical English butler's, Stevens, pursuit of dignity and denial of self parallels the British gentlemen's rigidity in custom and honor despite the need apparent for political and social change.

In the novel, Stevens' desire to attain dignity causes him to neglect other very important matters in his life. Going into the same profession that his father held and following his example, Stevens attains a manner of reserved calm. Through Lutz's assertions, we find that "the source of Stevens' pride, contentment, and self-worth has always been that he has served at the `hub' of his great island's society; his greatest goal was always to be a perfect butler to a perfect lord" (996). This sense, with an extreme loyalty to his employer Lord Darlington, causes Stevens to become a sort of automaton serving faithfully and unquestioningly. Stevens...