Herbert Kitchener (Character) - The Kingsman

Herbert Kitchener in The King’s Man

Introduction

Herbert Kitchener, portrayed by Charles Dance in the 2021 film The King’s Man, is a significant and complex character drawn from historical figures but adapted to fit the narrative of the Kingsman franchise. In the movie, Kitchener is depicted as the British Secretary of State for War, a position that grants him considerable influence and power within the British military and government.

Kitchener’s character is rooted in the real-life figure of Herbert Kitchener, a British Army officer and statesman known for his roles in the Boer War and World War I. However, the film takes creative liberties to integrate him into the Kingsman universe, making him a pivotal figure in the prequel’s storyline.

Kitchener’s defining traits include his strategic thinking, his willingness to make tough decisions, and his somewhat controversial legacy. His role in the movie is crucial as he navigates the complexities of war and politics, often finding himself at odds with the main characters.

Role in the Story

In The King’s Man, Herbert Kitchener is introduced as a powerful and influential member of the British military and government. He is the Secretary of State for War, a position that places him at the heart of Britain’s war efforts during World War I.

Kitchener’s storyline intersects with that of the main characters, particularly Orlando, Duke of Oxford, and his son Conrad. Orlando, who has vowed to keep his son out of the war, persuades Kitchener not to allow Conrad to join the British Army^[2]. However, Conrad’s determination to fight leads him to find ways to circumvent his father’s wishes and Kitchener’s restrictions.

Kitchener is involved in several key events, including the mission to Russia where he is supposed to negotiate with Tsar Nicholas II. However, his ship, HMS Hampshire, is torpedoed, and he is presumed dead. This event sets off a chain of reactions that drive the plot forward^[2].

Despite his death being reported, Kitchener’s legacy continues to influence the story. His character is criticized by Orlando for his willingness to allow others to fight while he remains safe, highlighting a theme of cowardice and self-preservation among those in power^[1].

Character Analysis

Herbert Kitchener’s character in The King’s Man is multifaceted and complex. On one hand, he is portrayed as a strategic thinker and a decorated officer with a significant impact on British military policy. On the other hand, he is shown to be willing to make decisions that cost others their lives while he remains in a position of safety.

Kitchener’s motivations are largely driven by his duty to the British government and his own ambition. However, this ambition is often at the expense of others, making him a somewhat unsympathetic character. His flaws include a lack of bravery and a tendency to prioritize his own interests over the well-being of others^[1].

Despite these flaws, Kitchener’s character serves as a commentary on the nature of power and war. He represents the bureaucratic and often detached aspect of war, where decisions are made by those who do not face the immediate consequences of their actions.

Themes and Symbolism

Herbert Kitchener embodies several themes that are central to The King’s Man. One of the most significant themes is the critique of power and the bureaucracy of war. Kitchener’s character highlights the disconnect between those who make the decisions and those who must carry them out.

Kitchener also symbolizes the historical context of World War I, a war marked by brutal tactics and significant human cost. His involvement in the expansion of concentration camps during the Boer War, as mentioned in the film, adds a layer of complexity to his character, reflecting the darker aspects of military history^[4].

The character of Kitchener contributes to the overarching message of the movie, which explores the human cost of war, the nature of bravery, and the moral ambiguities of those in power.

Cultural Impact

Herbert Kitchener’s portrayal in The King’s Man has contributed to the cultural discourse around historical figures and their representation in media. The film’s depiction of Kitchener as a complex, if not somewhat villainous, character has sparked discussions about the accuracy and ethics of portraying historical figures in fiction.

The character has also been part of the broader cultural impact of the Kingsman franchise, which is known for its blend of action, espionage, and historical fiction. Kitchener’s role in the prequel adds depth to the franchise’s narrative, connecting the modern-day Kingsman with historical events and figures.

Critical Reception

The reception of Herbert Kitchener’s character has been mixed. Critics have praised Charles Dance’s performance, noting his ability to bring depth and nuance to a complex character^[4]. However, some have criticized the film’s portrayal of Kitchener, arguing that it oversimplifies or distorts historical facts.

Audiences have also had varying interpretations of Kitchener’s role. Some see him as a symbol of the flaws in the military and political systems, while others view him as a necessary part of the narrative, highlighting the harsh realities of war.

Legacy

Herbert Kitchener’s character in The King’s Man has left a lasting impact on the Kingsman franchise and the broader cultural landscape. He represents a type of character archetype – the powerful, yet flawed, leader – that continues to be relevant in contemporary discussions about power, war, and morality.

Kitchener’s legacy in the film serves as a reminder of the complexities of historical figures and the importance of nuanced portrayals in media. His character has inspired further exploration into the historical context of World War I and the roles of key figures during that period.