The House of the Seven Gables · Question
How does The House of the Seven Gables develop the theme of Wealth and Moral Corruption?
Answer
The House of the Seven Gables by Nathaniel Hawthorne develops Wealth and Moral Corruption across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The pursuit and possession of wealth, particularly through unjust means, is shown to corrupt individuals and families, as seen in Colonel Pyncheon's original sin and Judge Pyncheon's greed and manipulation.
Judge Pyncheon's offers of luxury and his country-seat are revealed as tools of manipulation, masking his corrupt intentions toward Clifford.
Jaffrey's greed led him to steal a will and frame Clifford; the inheritance ultimately passes to those he wronged.
Evidence in the book
- VIII: The Pyncheon of Today
Judge Pyncheon's offers of luxury and his country-seat are revealed as tools of manipulation, masking his corrupt intentions toward Clifford.
- The Departure
Jaffrey's greed led him to steal a will and frame Clifford; the inheritance ultimately passes to those he wronged.
