The spy and the traitor: the greatest espionage story of the cold war

摘要

Ben Macintyre's The Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War follows the life and treachery of famed KGB officer-turned traitor, Oleg Gordievsky. Through his unique and meticulous writing style, Macintyre delves into the motivations, mindset and actions of one of the most influential Cold War spies for both the KGB and MI6.Laying out the foundations in Part One of the book, Macintyre outlines the soviet disillusionment and western influences that besotted the young Gordievsky, leading him into the dangerous and alluring world of espionage. In Parts Two and Three of the book, Macintyre explores Gordievsky's relationship with MI6 and his role as a double agent. Throughout the book, Macintyre consistently details Gordievsky's instrumental role in relaying sensitive information to his British Intelligence handlers and how impactful his loyalty was to the West. As well as highlighting Gordievsky's key role throughout the Cold War, Macintyre illustrates the unique relationship between the Russian spy and British intelligence officers. Macintyre explores the theme of mutual loyalty and demonstrates that beyond the terrains of traditional spy and handler, there grew a fondness and empathy between Gordievsky and MI6. In fact, it was this very fondness that the British had for Gordievsky, that encouraged them to coordinate one of the most dangerous exfiltration missions of the Cold War, smuggling him out of the Soviet Union in the back of a diplomatic car. Macintyre explores all these themes whilst carefully guiding the reader through Gordievsky's past. In doing so, it makes the reader sympathise with Gordievsky's inner turmoil, fear, and feelings of hope throughout his double agency.