The End of the Road presents a compelling examination of existential dilemmas through the story of Jacob Horner, an English teacher whose life is shaped by an enigmatic Doctor. The novel intertwines a seemingly mundane love triangle with profound philosophical questions. At its core, it challenges perceptions of identity, nihilism, and ethical values, leaving the reader to ponder the complexities of human existence.

The Enigmatic Beginning

Jacob Horner's journey begins with uncertainty about his very being. After completing his oral examination for a master's degree, Jacob finds himself paralyzed by indecision at a railroad station, unable to choose his next move. The Doctor, a mysterious figure who operates a "Remobilization Farm," takes Jacob under his wing, prescribing therapy designed to combat this paralysis. The farm, located near Wicomico, introduces Jacob to Mythotherapy, rooted in existential philosophy, where one crafts a role for oneself to maintain motion and avoid stagnation.

A Complex Triangle

At Wicomico State Teachers College, Jacob encounters Joe Morgan and his wife, Rennie, forming a complex relationship. This seemingly simple love triangle becomes the stage for exploring deeper ethical and existential conflicts. Barth's narrative offers no clear moral judgments, leaving readers without firm ethical grounding as the characters navigate their intertwined lives.

Mythotherapy and Positivism

Jacob embraces Mythotherapy, while Joe adheres to ethical positivism, characterized by a set of relative values he attempts to instill in Rennie. Rennie becomes the epicenter of their philosophical conflict. Initially, she adopts Joe's philosophy without question, erasing her own identity. However, Jacob's fluid approach tempts her to question her acquired beliefs.

The Clash of Perspectives

Rennie's interactions with Jacob reveal her inner turmoil as she grapples with her borrowed identity. She perceives Jacob as a "Satan" figure, enticing her with inconsistent but intriguing existential ideals. In contrast, she views Joe as a steadfast "god," embodying consistent moral and ethical values. The novel unfolds as a battle over Rennie's soul, with Jacob's existentialism clashing against Joe's positivism.

A Shattering Revelation

Amid this philosophical struggle, Rennie and Jacob engage in a casual affair while Joe is away. The incident occurs after they observe Joe in a moment of private self-reflection, which shatters Rennie's idealized view of him. She discovers that even Joe harbors inconsistencies, challenging her perception of him as a moral absolute.

Confrontation and Parody

When Rennie confesses her infidelity to Joe, he confronts Jacob, seeking understanding rather than retribution. Jacob's inability to provide reasons pushes Joe into a quest for explanation that borders on the absurd, revealing the parody of their philosophical stances. Joe's intellectualized relationship with Rennie mirrors Jacob's physical one, both faltering under scrutiny.

An Uncertain Future

Despite the turmoil, Jacob and Rennie continue their liaison, driven by her need to resolve her feelings. When she becomes pregnant, uncertainty looms over the child's paternity. Rennie faces her own existential crisis, contemplating suicide if an abortion is not possible.

A Desperate Resolve

Jacob's attempt to help Rennie leads him to drastic actions, involving deceit and impersonation to secure an abortion. Rennie's refusal to lie about her identity drives Jacob to desperation, leading him to turn to the Doctor for help. The Doctor consents to perform the abortion in exchange for Jacob's money and agreement to relocate with him.

The Tragic Outcome

Tragically, Rennie dies during the procedure at the Remobilization Farm. Jacob is left in fear of legal repercussions, but Joe surprisingly supports him. This event devastates Joe, undermining his once-solid convictions. Both men's philosophical frameworks crumble under the weight of real-world consequences.

Reconstruction and Retreat

In the aftermath, Joe must piece together his shattered beliefs and redefine his life. Jacob, incapable of facing life's responsibilities, returns to the Doctor, seeking refuge from the harsh realities. The novel closes without resolution, leaving both characters to confront their existential dilemmas.