Short Fiction · Question
How does Short Fiction develop the theme of Evil and Moral Corruption?
Answer
Short Fiction by Manly Wade Wellman develops Evil and Moral Corruption across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Characters are frequently driven by greed, cruelty, or a will to power, as seen in slave traders, mad scientists, and sorcerers, highlighting the pervasive nature of moral decay and the seduction of evil.
Zoberg's confession reveals his innate lust for evil, his joy in killing, and his manipulative plans to corrupt Susan.
Discussion of Byron's wickedness and the 'diabolic curse' on his family.
Varduk's manipulation of the rehearsal, the trick with the sword, and the disputed sacrilegious script error suggest underlying moral corruption and deceit.
Evidence in the book
- XV: “And That Is the End.”
Zoberg's confession reveals his innate lust for evil, his joy in killing, and his manipulative plans to corrupt Susan.
- IV: Into the Country
Discussion of Byron's wickedness and the 'diabolic curse' on his family.
- VII: Rehearsal
Varduk's manipulation of the rehearsal, the trick with the sword, and the disputed sacrilegious script error suggest underlying moral corruption and deceit.
- Pursuivant Again
Pursuivant describes Byron's forebears and associates as depraved and cursed, suggesting a hereditary taint of evil that may affect Varduk.
- X: That Evening
Pursuivant and the narrator discuss the active evil surrounding Varduk and the need to confront it rather than flee.
- Fearful Rock
Characters are confronted with moral decay and the corrupting influence of evil forces.
- IX: Debate and Decision
The book of Albertus Magnus is questioned as potentially evil, and the demonic attack represents moral corruption.
- X: Enid Mandifer Again
The stepfather's doctrine is described as 'a devil's doctrine' and 'blasphemy,' linking his teachings to moral corruption.
