r to develop their individuality. This is known as the 'acte gratuit' or gratuitous action, and is the core of the Existentialist's affirmation of their existence. The association of Clegg with this branch of philosophy is reinforced by his bloody-minded capriciousness, a quality that appears rife amongst existentialists from the viewpoint of a layperson. The correlation between existentialism and Clegg, and the interpretation of Clegg as a fundamentally evil character can position the reader to infer that existentialism is a philosophy that is without grounding or sufficient worth. This may even invite the interpretation of it as a breeding ground for the socially corrupt members of society. The adoption of these fundamental aspects of existential thought by Clegg is intriguing, as his restricted actions and thoughts seem to be in direct conflict with this. Additionally, Clegg is ever conscious of class ( 'everything in the room seemed to look down at us because we weren't brought up in their way.') throughout the duration of his narrative(s). His regimented notions of gender, such as his views on the appropriate behaviour of women, ( 'I always hated vulgar women,') are in contrast with the anti-classification ideals of existentialism. This has two profound effects; the statement that no concept is ever all good or all bad and it leads to construction of a richer and therefore more believable character. This contradiction within Clegg's mind is indicative of his degraded mental state.
             Ultimately, it is Miranda's development of existential thought that position
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