Eddie Chapman's ever-changing status with his handler, Stephan von Groning, clearly highlights his double life and deception. After Chapman's arrest and imprisonment with the Nazis, he offers to spy for them in exchange for his release. As his offer is passed through the German ranks, he is eventually introduced to von Groning, who accepts Chapman's offer. The reader's hindsight invokes dramatic irony, as von Groning is unaware that Chapman's offer isn't what it seems. Chapman's complex network of competing affiliations make it challenging to identify his true identity. The reality is that he was too double-crossed to trust anyone with the full truth.
"Sometimes in life you feel that there is something which you must do, and in which you must trust your own judgment and not that of any other person. Some call it conscience and some plain obstinacy." -Agent ZigZag
Chapman was the only individual in the story that knew the whole truth of his complicated situation. Several supporting figures thought they knew who Eddie Chapman was, but there was always another side of his story. Von Groning thought he was managing a loyal spy and receiving truthful intelligence, though it's clear that was not the case. Chapman's connection with him affected far more than just the two involved. He continued his manipulation and deception on several occasions, greatly enhancing British intelligence operations. By using a form of reverse psychology, Chapman made von Groning think he was in control, however it was Chapman that held all of the power. His false submission empowers von Groning, and makes him more comfortable sharing secrets with Chapman. The relationship between the two agents provided a steady stream of intelligence to flow directly into British hands, saving lives and turning the tide of the war in the process.