Iris Murdoch's work, particularly her twenty-second novel, The Good Apprentice, is an intricate tapestry, weaving together social realism, philosophical musings, and elaborate storytelling. Known for her adeptness in crafting complex plots, Murdoch captivates her readers with unexpected twists and resolutions, wrapped in what one critic describes as "the eventual subsidence of emotion in a general feeling of justice." This signature style is evident in The Good Apprentice, where the intricacies of human relationships and moral dilemmas are explored in depth.

Central to Murdoch's narrative is her intellectual and philosophical background. As a long-serving professor of philosophy and the author of Sartre: Romantic Rationalist (1953), Murdoch consistently infuses her novels with discussions of power, freedom, and morality. Since the publication of her eleventh novel, The Nice and the Good (1968), she has been particularly preoccupied with the quest for goodness in the modern world—a theme that resonates deeply in The Good Apprentice. The characters are portrayed in their earnest search for "the good," engaging in dialogues that ponder its nature and whereabouts.

However, the critical reception of The Good Apprentice has been as intricate as the novel itself. Critics have offered varying perspectives, reflecting the complex nature of Murdoch's work. Harold Bloom, for instance, acknowledged the novel's comedic and philosophical duality but questioned whether Murdoch could successfully blend these elements due to what he termed as her "archaic stance as an authorial will." This suggests a tension in Murdoch's style that some find difficult to reconcile.

On the other hand, Howard Moss appreciated Murdoch's effort but critiqued the overt emphasis on the existence of goodness, finding the approach somewhat repetitive. Meanwhile, Gillian Wilce termed the novel a "moral soap opera," an indication of both criticism and admiration. She recognized Murdoch's recurring theme of the human struggle—not just for meaning, but for the elusive concept of goodness itself, underscoring the persistent moral quest that defines much of Murdoch's oeuvre.

The Good Apprentice stands as a testament to Murdoch's enduring literary exploration of ethical issues, reflecting her philosophical roots and her commitment to unraveling the complexities of human morality. As such, it continues to provoke thought and debate among readers and critics, maintaining Murdoch's position as a significant figure in contemporary literature.