The 'Tradecraft' exhibition at Oxford University's Bodleian Library showcases the life and work of John le Carré, born David Cornwell, emphasizing his background, motivations, and influence on espionage fiction.

While some critics and officials have raised concerns about the negative tone of his novels, many acknowledge that his stories provoke important debates about morality and loyalty.

Cornwell's early career in the British Army's intelligence corps and MI5 deeply informed his writing, though it also caused him personal discomfort due to the blurred lines between his real experiences and fiction.

His reflections reveal a strong interest in themes of loyalty, conscience, and trust, which underpin both his personal life and his literary work.

His novels evolved from Cold War themes to contemporary issues like corporate responsibility, the arms trade, and moral ambiguities in espionage after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Cornwell's childhood, marked by familial betrayal and a conman father, influenced his autobiographical novel 'A Perfect Spy,' exploring themes of trust and deception.

He drew inspiration from relationships with figures like Vivian Green and actors such as Alec Guinness, who portrayed George Smiley, embodying qualities Cornwell admired.

The exhibition highlights Cornwell's meticulous research, including travels and consultations with intelligence sources, to authenticate his plots involving arms trade, political coups, and pharmaceutical secrecy.

Running until April 6, 2025, the 'Tradecraft' exhibition offers visitors insights into the techniques and motivations behind le Carré's influential spy stories.