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 “Revenge is a kind of wild justice”—Explain.

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Francis Bacon is a notable literary work by Francis Bacon. 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 Francis Bacon.

Answer

 “Revenge is a kind of wild justice”—Explain.

Or, how is revenge a kind of wild justice?

Francis Bacon (1561–1626) was a moral philosopher. His essay “Of Revenge” was published in 1625 in his collection “Essays or Counsels, Civil and Moral.” In this essay, he speaks against taking revenge. He explains that revenge looks like justice. But it is not guided by law. It comes from personal anger. Let us discuss private revenge.

Revenge Is Natural but Dangerous: Bacon knows that revenge feels natural. When hurt, people want to hit back. But he warns that this brings more harm. It takes justice into one’s own hands. He writes,

“Revenge is a kind of wild justice.”

This shows that revenge is uncontrolled and dangerous.

Law Is Better Than Personal Action: Bacon believes the law should punish wrong. Personal revenge weakens the rule of law. If everyone takes revenge, peace will end. Bacon says wise men let go of anger. They trust justice, not emotion. Forgiveness shows moral strength.

Revenge Hurts the One Who Takes It: Bacon says revenge keeps pain fresh. It blocks healing and peace. He writes,

“A man that studieth revenge, keeps his own wounds green.”

This line shows that anger remains active. Revenge hurts the revenger more than the enemy.

Forgiveness Lifts a Person Higher: A forgiving person is better than the offender. Forgiveness brings calm and respect. It ends the cycle of pain. Bacon says to pass over offenses wisely. Peace lasts longer than revenge.

In short, Bacon clearly warns against revenge. He shows it is wild, not wise. Real justice belongs to the law. Bacon teaches that true wisdom lies in forgiveness, not in revenge. His message is still powerful today.

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