- Prime Minister Winston Churchill, 1942 - Library of Congress
By all accounts Winston Churchill should have been a failure. He was not academically gifted, his parents were distant, and he had no real friends growing up. If anything, his position as the son of an influential British aristocrat could only influence him to be an unflagging supporter of the concept of a British empire. Yet how can this explain the man himself, his complex thoughts and principles? Stephen Mansfield contributes a unique perspective on Churchill in Never Give In: The Extraordinary Character of Winston Churchill. While acknowledging that events in an individual’s lifetime do in fact affect a person, Mansfield is more interested in delving into the deeper convictions of Churchill, the convictions that gave him the courage to fight wars, to risk his life, and to take the political risks that set him apart as a leader during the dark days of World War II.
Family Life: The Context of Character
In evaluating the legacy of Churchill, Mansfield focuses on two important aspects: First, the development of Churchill’s indomitable character; second, the growth of his faith. These two elements seemed to progress on similar paths. Many biographers will focus on Churchill’s upbringing as part of a proud family heritage in the house of Marlborough and point to his somewhat estranged relationship with his family as being the developing points of an emotional, but proud man. Mansfield acknowledges these themes, but focuses attention on the relationship of young Winston with his nanny, Mrs. Elizabeth Anne Everest. From this simple woman, Churchill imbibed his first impressions and commitments to the Christian faith, an aspect of his life which Mansfield notes had a profound impact on Churchill’s perceptions of the world and the events that occurred in it. This early exposure to Christianity, combined with a strong connection to such a prestigious house gave Churchill a solid foundation in history and the idealistic principles of Christendom and the British Empire, two entities which he considered himself to be a staunch defender. Mansfield maintains that Churchill’s Christian worldview is essential to the development of his legendary character of principle and courage in a late 19th century world of skepticism, and anti-religious thought.
In His Own Words: Churchill's Beliefs and Perspectives
Churchill’s rich and full life provides a dramatic backdrop to explore the character of Churchill through a topical study of the man’s thoughts on a variety of topics ranging from faith and humor to death and action. One gets the firm perception of Churchill as a man of deep conviction and courage who interpreted his world through a framework of Christian thought. A man, who could talk of fighting fascism to the bitter end, could speak of the beauty and relevance of Scripture with equal alacrity. Mansfield maintains that Churchill drew his strength and vision from a pre-Victorian, almost romantic, ideal of the beauty and strength of Christendom. They were the ideals embodied in Christian thought that inspired Churchill to such bold and tenacious leadership in a time when most political leaders hoped more pragmatic politics would be there collective salvation.
Whether people view his as a conservative imperialist, a cynical politician, or a coarse, unlearned man, one cannot get away from the complex personality that was Churchill. Never Give In is very accessible and insightful work by one of America’s best commentators on the interaction of faith, politics, and history, and should be considered essential ready on the life of one of the 20th century’s greatest figures.
Sources
Stephen Mansfield, Never Give In: The Extraordinary Character of Winston Churchill
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