Morality and Debauchery

The book explores the idea that true debauchery comes not from indulgence but from the moral agonizing and self-consciousness that accompany it, as seen in Edward Burden's confession and the narrator's judgments.

The narrator's embezzlement and contemplation of suicide highlight his moral decline, as he sacrifices his integrity for his passion.

The narrator's moral conflict over his actions and his indulgence in risky behavior reflect this theme.

The narrator redefines debauchery as the joy derived from moral conflict, using Burden's confession as an example.