Short Fiction · Question
How does Short Fiction develop the theme of Corruption and Injustice?
Answer
Short Fiction by J. Sheridan Le Fanu develops Corruption and Injustice across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Corruption appears in both legal and personal spheres, notably through the tyrannical Judge Harbottle who manipulates the court, and through characters like Dwyer who scheme for wealth, often leading to moral decay and eventual downfall.
Sir Arthur's manipulation of the legal system, his plot to murder his niece, and the Frenchwoman's confession implicating him.
Edward Dwyer's transformation into an informer and his exploitation of the O'Maras illustrate moral corruption and social injustice.
The political turmoil and the presence of 'dissolute and desperate adventurers' in Dublin reflect corruption and injustice in the aftermath of war.
Evidence in the book
- Passage in the Secret History of an Irish Countess
Sir Arthur's manipulation of the legal system, his plot to murder his niece, and the Frenchwoman's confession implicating him.
- The Bridal of Carrigvarah
Edward Dwyer's transformation into an informer and his exploitation of the O'Maras illustrate moral corruption and social injustice.
- An Adventure of Hardress Fitzgerald, a Royalist Captain
The political turmoil and the presence of 'dissolute and desperate adventurers' in Dublin reflect corruption and injustice in the aftermath of war.
- Borrhomeo the Astrologer
Borrhomeo's willingness to spread plague for personal gain highlights moral corruption, though he is ultimately arrested and punished.
- I: Aunt Margaret at Home
Aunt Margaret's suspicion of a conspiracy among men to rob her, and her frustration with the tailor's evasiveness, highlight themes of injustice and moral decay in business dealings.
- I: Peg O’Neill Pays the Captain’s Debts
Captain Walshawe's abusive treatment of his wife and servant, and his financial irresponsibility.
- IV: In the Parlour
The missing leases and the suspicion of the attorney's theft highlight themes of fraud and dishonesty in estate matters.
- Madam Crowl's Ghost
The hidden murder and cover-up of the boy's death reflect corruption and injustice within the household.
