The Crock of Gold · Question
How does The Crock of Gold develop the theme of Justice as Readjustment?
Answer
The Crock of Gold by James Stephens develops Justice as Readjustment across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Justice is portrayed not as punishment but as the restoration of equilibrium, a natural readjustment demanded by the Earth itself, contrasting sharply with the vengeful, mechanical systems of human law.
The Leprecauns seek justice for the theft of their gold, but their vengeance is complicated by fairy laws and the Thin Woman's disavowal of responsibility.
The Philosopher's arrest for murder suggests a reckoning or readjustment of his actions and beliefs.
Justice is defined as the maintaining of equilibrium and readjustment of a thwarted consciousness, rejecting revenge and punishment as products of timorous intellect.
Evidence in the book
- IV
The Leprecauns seek justice for the theft of their gold, but their vengeance is complicated by fairy laws and the Thin Woman's disavowal of responsibility.
- Book IV: The Philosopher’s Return
The Philosopher's arrest for murder suggests a reckoning or readjustment of his actions and beliefs.
- XIII
Justice is defined as the maintaining of equilibrium and readjustment of a thwarted consciousness, rejecting revenge and punishment as products of timorous intellect.
- Book V: The Policemen
The return of the gold to the Leprecauns and the arrest of the Philosopher reflect a readjustment of order.
- XV
The Philosopher's decision to surrender to the police, believing an innocent man cannot be oppressed, embodies a view of justice as a personal and societal readjustment.
