The Sympathizer

Main Ideas

• The duality of identity and the internal conflict of the protagonist, who is half Vietnamese, half French, and a communist spy working in South Vietnam.
• The theme of betrayal and loyalty, both on a personal level and in terms of ideologies and nations.
• Critique of American imperialism and its impact on Vietnam, as well as the depiction of the war's consequences for both sides.
• Exploration of the concept of «sympathy» and its significance in the context of human relationships and political ideologies.
• Questions of cultural identity and assimilation, especially in the context of emigration and life in exile.
• Examination of the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the protagonist in his espionage activities and personal life.