Page "Lawrence of Arabia (film)" Paragraph 68

The film portrays General Allenby as cynical and manipulative, with a superior attitude to Lawrence, but there is much evidence that Allenby and Lawrence respected and liked each other.

Lawrence once said that Allenby was " an admiration of mine " and later that he was " physically large and confident and morally so great that the comprehension of our littleness came slow to him ".

In contrast to the fictional Allenby's words at Lawrence's funeral in the film, upon Lawrence's death Allenby remarked, " I have lost a good friend and a valued comrade.

Lawrence was under my command, but, after acquainting him with my strategical plan, I gave him a free hand.

His co-operation was marked by the utmost loyalty, and I never had anything but praise for his work, which, indeed, was invaluable throughout the campaign.

" Allenby also spoke highly of him on numerous other occasions, and much to Lawrence's delight, publicly endorsed the accuracy of Seven Pillars of Wisdom.

Although Allenby did manipulate Lawrence during the war, their relationship lasted for years after its end, indicating that in real-life they were friendly, if not close.

The Allenby family was particularly upset by the Damascus scenes, where Allenby coldly allows the town to fall into chaos as the Arab Council collapses.