How Does Dumas Use Revenge In The Count Of Monte Cristo

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Recommended: Explain revenge as a theme in literature

In Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo, Dumas uses multiple characters to convey his theme of vengeance, power, and forgiveness. These characters include Edmond Dantes, Mercedes, Maximilien, Monsieur Morrel, and many other characters. Overall, in the Count of Monte Cristo, Dumas utilizes Edmond Dantes to convey the different themes- like vengeance- that he utilizes.
Alexandre Dumas utilizes Edmond Dantes to show the effects of vengeance on a good person. In the beginning of the novel, Edmond is well-liked by everyone, he is a kind and caring person, and good fortune is bestowed upon him. Furthermore, Edmond portrays being a good son when he declines going to dinner with Morrel, and instead “‘[thinks he owes his] first visit to [his] …show more content…

He is no longer the young and naive man who was magnanimous and hopeful, instead his friend Abbe Faria fears that he “‘instilled in [Edmond’s] heart a feeling that wasn’t there before: vengeance”’(Dumas 58). In that prison, Edmond “formed a terrible resolution and swore a fearful oath” (Dumas 58). This demonstrates Edmond’s change because now he has a deep hatred towards these men who wronged him, and the only thing that keeps him going is the vengeance he will bestow upon him. When he finally escapes from prison, his only goal is to retrieve the treasure from the Island of Monte Cristo, and exacting his revenge on Fernand, Villefort, Caderousse, and Danglars. In this scheme, he demonstrates personality traits of determination, will, and overall hatred. Fortunately, this hatred does not totally blind him because he rewards those who supported and loved him. An example of this is when he pays off his friend Morrel’s debt and saves him from killing himself. Although as soon as he repays and saves Morrel, Edmond says ”’farewell to kindness, humanity, and gratitude. Farewell to all sentiments that gladden the heart. I have substituted myself for Providence in rewarding the good; may the God of vengeance now yield me His place to punish the wicked”’ (Dumas 131). As Edmond carries out his last good deed- or so he thinks- he carries out his plan to punish and exact revenge on the …show more content…

In contrast to what everybody else believes, he thinks he deserves to be alone in the world so that his “‘destiny doesn’t darken [Haydee]”’ (Dumas 528). He in turn sets her free from the bondage of slavery, but he is surprised when she reveals that she loves him and wants to stay with him forever. Edmond is saved by love and reveals the error of his ways. He is no longer the all-powerful, godly, and knowledgeable being he once believed he was. Instead he realizes that “the sum of all human wisdom will be contained in these two words: Wait and hope” (Dumas

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