Philisophical Defintion of the Meaning of Evil
Philisophical Defintion of the Meaning of Evil
Evil has been described throughout time and in all places of the world in numerous ways. Tradition has taught both scholars and average individuals to appreciate the delicate balance between good and evil; right versus wrong; bad versus good. Hell has long been feared by many as the permanent resting place for tortured souls that committed unforgivable sins on Earth. To some, it is the simple fear, such as a monster underneath one's bed, which lingers from that person's childhood continuing to challenge the senses. To others, it is the inner voices within the mind expressing the ultimate freedom that can only be obtained by taking another life in a gruesome fashion. History has even allowed for the celebration preceding the Christian feast of All Saints Day. The observances connected with Halloween are thought to have originated among the ancient Druids, who believed that on that evening, Saman, the lord of the dead, called forth hosts of evil spirits. (Halloween np). Clearly, evil has a past, and a very active future. The many variations of evil will be compared and contrasted through instruments such as poetry, art, and musical selections to gain a heightened awareness of what existed in the past, and still exists today.
Webster defines evil as, "morally wrong or bad; wicked; causing pain or trouble; threatening or bringing misfortune; unlucky; offensive, or anything causing harm." (Neufeldt 471). Although large in breadth and depth, this definition is symbolic of what most people relate to when they think of evil. However, the non-typical association with evil arrives in the form of mental torment or torturous thoughts ranging from negativity to self-destruction. Obvious to many, yet hidden from some, evil can manifest itself into one's very being and begin a dangerous journey.
The first poem to be analyzed is "The Slave Auction" by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper. (Harper 13). [see appendix A]. This piece of work expresses evil in the states of brutality and sadness. Slavery is thought by some, as being "morally wrong." In the poem, a woman describes the ruthlessness of the slave auction and the sadness which it induces. The woman speaks of young, defenseless girls crying and heartbroken mothers losing children and spouses. Tyrants tore apart families and ultimately dictated the...