Alan Turing: The Ostracism of a Great Man

The recent release of ‘the imitation game’ starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Alan Turing, has caused a wave of positive reviews from around the world, yet the mathematician’s genius was first witnessed much more locally. Turing was student at Sherborne School before his code-breaking achievements at Bletchley Park during the Second World War. There, he was tasked with the seemingly impossible mission of breaking the German encryption code named Enigma. Cracking such a code would prove to be a major aspect in turning the tide of war.

Initially, the film is weighed down by some heavy themes. The continuous sinking of merchant shipping is just one agonising aspect in the disastrous toll of war. Turing is constantly reminded of the cost caused by the encryption of all major German communications. Luckily, the unique humour of Cumberbatch lightens the scene. The actor portrays a social capability that is seemingly lost within a complex brain. His constant failure to pick up on social cues brings a unique comedy as he lays waste to his friends’ romantic aspirations. 

Later, the film discusses Turing’s homosexuality.  The film addresses the injustice of the man’s astounding achievements being overshadowed by a question of ‘indecency’. The latter stages of the film are not lightened by humour but by the triumphs of his work. The film states that historians believe the man shortened the war by at least 2 years, saving 14 million lives.  We are left with the emotive question: was he a war hero, or was he a criminal?

Whilst the film engaged with the struggle of his life at school, it did not show some of his accomplishments there. Masters of the school would have learned quickly of Turing’s determination. In fact the day he arrived in Southampton to begin his journey to school, he was faced by a general strike that halted all transport. The boy persevered, bought the nearest bike and cycled the sixty-mile journey from Southampton to Sherborne. This extraordinarily long commute was not entirely out of character. Turing was not one for performing the ordinary tasks of everyday life and strove to go further. J.H Randolph, his mathematics teacher mentioned in one report: ‘He spends a good deal of time apparently in Investigations in advanced mathematics to the neglect of his elementary work.’

The film portrays Turing brilliantly with an exceptional cast. It’s outstanding ratings and reviews to well do reflect this. Above all, the film acknowledges the man’s achievements for what they are. We learn that it is those who are different, that are usually persecuted and ostracised, that have the capability to do great things. We accept that the restraints of a ‘normal’ society limit those who fight to achieve work that will benefit the people. Now, more than ever, will the work of Alan turing be wholly appreciated.  

Published in the Sherborne Times January 2015