The Theme Of Revenge In The Revenant By Michael Punke

Revenge is defined as the action of inflicting hurt or harm on someone for an injury or wrong suffered at their hands. It is a natural thing to feel, as everyone has the capability to be angered by other’s wrongdoings. However, the cycle of revenge and forgiveness is a complicated and controversial topic. The novel The Revenant by Michael Punke dives into this idea of revenge by telling the story of Hugh Glass, an explorer whose “ally’s” stole his belongings and left him to die after being savagely attacked by a bear. Glass’ journey following his abandonment is a long one, but it is driven by his revenge for those who left him. While this want for vengeance is normal, it may not always be the right response. The actions of Hugh Glass align with the normal cycle of revenge, as shown through the

For instance, in “Revenge” Thornton mentions that “It’s almost as if a thirst for retribution is hardwired into the male psyche” (Thornton 112). Thornton believes that vengeance is a part of human nature and that men will not be satisfied until they get what they desire. Hugh Glass shows these traits when facing his situation regarding his traitors as revenge is the thing that keeps Glass going on his journey. Likewise, in “The Unnatural Act,” Yancey metaphorically explains the animal instinct of revenge by saying, “You don’t find dolphins forgiving sharks for eating their playmates. It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there, not a dog-forgive-dog” (Yancey 16). Glass’ actions in the process of his revenge are almost animal-like in the way that he is willing to go to such extreme lengths to get as he desires. The world does not seem to be a place where forgiveness comes from a place lacking internal struggle, as depicted in this excerpt from Yancey. Overall, it is a commonality amongst these two authors that revenge is a natural part of human