How does Eben take revenge on his father?
Desire Under the Elms is a notable literary work by Eugene O'Neill. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Desire Under the Elms.
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How does Eben take revenge on his father? [2019, 2017, 2015] ✪✪✪
“Desire Under the Elms” (1924) is a revenge tragedy written by Eugene O’Neill (1888–1953). The play shows the conflict between father and son. Eben Cabot takes revenge on his father, Ephraim Cabot, for his mother’s death and cruelty. His revenge begins with anger and ends in tragedy.
Hatred for His Father: Eben hates his father deeply. He believes his father’s hard work and cruelty killed his mother. He says that his mother’s spirit now “can sleep in the grave peacefully.” His words clearly show his anger and his wish to take revenge for her pain.
Love with Abbie: Eben’s revenge starts when he falls in love with Abbie, his father’s young wife. At first, his love is not true. He loves her only to hurt his father. He says proudly,
“She may’ve been his’n—but she’s mine now!”
Through this act, Eben attacks his father’s pride and manhood.
Desire for the Farm: Eben also wants to claim his mother’s land. He says,
“This farm belonged to her. Our father took it from her without any right.”
He believes taking the farm back will fulfill his mother’s spirit and complete his revenge against his father’s greed and injustice.
Guilt and Realization: In the end, Eben’s revenge brings only suffering. Abbie kills their baby to prove love, and Eben feels deep guilt. His revenge turns into sorrow. He realizes that hatred cannot bring peace, only more tragedy and pain.
Thus, Eben’s revenge begins with anger but ends in regret. He hurts his father through love and greed, but finally, he punishes himself. O’Neill shows that revenge destroys both heart and home.