Prompt: Many works of literature contain a character who intentionally deceives others. The character's dishonesty may be intended either to help or to hurt. Such a character , for example, may choose to mislead others for personal safety, to spare someone's feelings, or to carry out a crime. Choose a novel or play in which a character deceives others. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze the motives for that character's deception and discuss how the deception contributes to the meaning of the work as a whole.
In the novel “The Murder on the Orient Express” Agatha employs deception through the thought of self-preservation in order to convey the crucial role of the characters hiding behind their true intentions, ultimately illustrating the dishonesty that the characters have to help and hurt each other.
Initially, one of the primary motives for deception among the characters in the novel is self-preservation. Many of the passengers on the train have secrets or hidden pasts that they are desperately trying to protect. For example, Ratchett, the victim of the murder, is revealed to be a criminal who consumed a false identity. Some other characters such as Mrs. Hubbard and Princess Dragomiroff, also have reasons to hide their true identities or past actions. Deceptions serve as a means of manipulation and control in the novel. Some characters manipulate others and protect their own interests. By lying about their relationship and motives, they are able to influence the course of the investigation and divert suspicion away from themselves. Additionally, deception is used as a tool for revenge and retribution in the novel. The murder itself is an act of deception orchestrated by a group of individuals seeking justice for a past crime. By framing Ratchett for the murder of Daisy Armstrong, they exact their own form of justice and ensure that the true culprits are held accountable for their actions.
Furthermore, some characters engage in deception to protect their loved ones or uphold their sense of duty. Poirot himself, the brilliant detective investigating the murder, is not immune to deception. He chooses to deceive the authorities in order to protect the perpetrators of the murder, who he believes acted out of a sense of justice. Poirot’s description serves a higher moral purpose, as he values justice and mercy over strict adherence to the law. One notable example of deception being used to protect loved ones is the relationship between Colonel Arbuthnot and Mary Debenham. Both characters are implicated in the murder of Ratchett, and they choose to deceive others about the true nature of their connection. By concealing their romantic involvement and portraying themselves as strangers on the train, they aim to deflect suspicion and safeguard each other from being implicated in the crime. By using deception to protect their loved ones it contributes to the richness of the characters and the intricates of the plot. It adds depth to their relationships and motivations, revealing the complex interplay between loyalty, morality, and the desire to shield those closest to us from harm.
By unraveling the motives for deception among the characters, we gain insight into the intricacies of human nature and the complexities of morality. Deception serves as a powerful narrative device that drives the plot forward. In the novel “The Murder on the Orient Express” Christie contributes the novel’s enduring appeal as a thought provoking exploration of morality and justice in the face of deception between the characters.
Prompt: It has often been said that what we value can be determined only by what we sacrifice. Consider how this statement applies to a character from a novel or play. Select a character that has deliberately sacrificed, surrendered, or forfeited something in a way that highlights that character's values. Then write a well-organized essay in which you analyze how the particular sacrifice illuminates the character's values and provides a deeper understanding of the meaning of the work as a whole.
In the novel “ABC Murders” Agatha employs sacrifice through the character Captain Arthur Hastings by assisting Poirot even when it puts him in danger, and his motivation driven by loyalty, friendship, and the sense of justice in order to convey the complexity of human nature and morality, ultimately illustrating the duality of sacrifice and how it can be both noble and tragic.
Initially, Captain Arthur Hastings demonstrates sacrifice by accommodating Poirot in his investigation of the serial killer known as ABC, even though he knows it can be murderous. Hastings puts his own safety at risk by actively participating in the dangerous pursuit of the murderer, showing his unwavering loyalty and commitment to helping Poirot solve the case. Despite his reservations about the risks involved, Hastings remains by Poirot’s side every step of the way. His willingness to sacrifice his own well-being for the sake of justice and friendship underscores his bravery and devotion to their shared mission. Hastings does show his sacrifice through time and effort, no matter what Hastings has going on, he puts it aside and helps Poirot gather clues, interview suspects, and brainstorm solutions to the cases they are working on. While Hastings may not engage in dramatic acts of sacrifice like risking his life, he consistently shows his dedication and commitment to assisting Poirot through his actions, choices, and character traits.
Furthermore, Hastings selflessly dedicates himself to supporting Poirot, driven by a sense of justice and loyalty to his partner. His willingness to put himself at risk demonstrates his courage and determination to see the case through to its resolution. Hastings’ unwavering support for Poirot, astute observations, and his commitment to uncovering the truth highlight his noble acts and his strong moral compass. Additionally, Hastings’ acts of courage and selflessness in the face of peril underscore his admirable character traits, such a bravery, compassion, and willingness to assist Poirot for the greater good. Throughout the novel, Hastings’ actions reflect his genuine desire to help others and his deep-seated integrity, making him a valuable ally to Poirot in the pursuit of justice.
Agatha engages in sacrifice through the novel, “ABC Murders” through the character Captain Arthur Hastings by accommodating Poirot even when he knows it can be dangerous, and his inspiration driven by devotion, partnership, and the sense of justice in order to convey the difficulty of humanity and morality, ultimately illustrating the difference of sacrifice and how it can be both honorable and devastating.