Money as the Symbol of Manipulation

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The Visit is a play by Friedrich Durrenmatt that is following events that partake in the town of Guellen. The protagonist Claire pursues to seek revenge on her past lover Ill who essentially robbed Claire of her life. When the relationship had ended Ill left her with nothing and her hometown Guellen turned her away. She lost her freedom, child, and was forced to rebuild her life. After leaving Guellen out of shame, she returned to punish Ill. In The Visit Durrenmatt uses the symbol of money to elucidate the gradual change in morals the town of Guellen undergoes with Claire’s return. The town of Guellen’s impoverished lifestyle created a lifestyle the townspeople had become accustomed to. At Claire’s return to Guellen, she gives forth an ultimatum to all of townspeople. The Butler states: “And now you desire justice, Claire Zachanassian” To which Claire replies: “I can afford it. A million for Guellen if someone kills Alfred Ill” (The Visit 38). Claire bribes the citizens with money which was a commodity they had not had ample access to. Money was intentionally put into the situation...

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