Discuss the Theme of Revenge in Desire Under the Elms.

Answer

Discuss the theme of revenge in “Desire Under the Elms.” [2020] 

Eugene O’Neill (1888–1953) reveals how the feeling of revenge destroys peace, love, and life in his play “Desire Under the Elms” (1924). The story is centered on Eben Cabot, who wants revenge against his father, Ephraim Cabot. His anger comes from his mother’s death and his father’s cruelty. Eben’s revenge grows through love, desire, and guilt. O’Neill presents revenge not as justice but as a powerful emotion that brings suffering to everyone in the family.

Eben’s Hatred for His Father: Eben hates his father because Cabot worked his mother to death. He says,

“Didn’t he slave Maw t’ death?” 

This line shows his anger and pain. Eben believes that his mother’s soul still lives around the house. He feels her spirit wants revenge. His hatred becomes stronger when Cabot marries Abbie, a young woman. Eben thinks this marriage insults his mother’s memory. His desire for revenge becomes the main force that controls his life and actions.

Love as a Way of Revenge: Eben uses love to take revenge on his father. He falls in love with Abbie, Cabot’s new wife. At first, this love is not pure. He wants to hurt his father’s pride. He says, 

“She may’ve been his’n—but she’s mine now.” 

His words show that his love is born from revenge, not affection. But as time passes, Eben truly loves Abbie. His revengeful love slowly turns into real passion, and that passion brings more guilt and pain.

Abbie as a Tool of Revenge: Abbie becomes the center of Eben’s revenge. At first, she marries Cabot for the farm. But soon, she falls for Eben. Both use each other to reach their goals—Eben for revenge, Abbie for love. Their sin is not only against Cabot but also against their own souls. Abbie’s words, 

“Let me kiss ye, Eben! I’ll be everythin’ she was t’ ye!”

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