What was wrong with Heywood in “Poetic Justice”?
In “Poetic Justice,” a play by John Heywood, the protagonist, Heywood himself, presents a complex character that raises several questions about his moral compass and actions. The play, a morality tale, explores themes of justice, retribution, and the consequences of one’s actions. However, it is Heywood’s character that stands out as the central focus of the play, leaving audiences pondering what was truly wrong with him.
Heywood’s character is portrayed as a man who has a strong sense of justice but often resorts to violent and vengeful means to achieve it. His actions are driven by a desire for retribution, which often leads him down a dark path. One of the most significant issues with Heywood is his lack of self-awareness. He seems to be oblivious to the fact that his actions are often harmful and unjust, further complicating the concept of poetic justice.
Another problem with Heywood is his tendency to take the law into his own hands. Instead of seeking legal justice, he enacts his own form of retribution, which often results in innocent individuals suffering. This raises ethical questions about the morality of his actions and whether poetic justice is truly served when the consequences of one’s actions affect others who are not directly responsible.
Furthermore, Heywood’s character is marked by a lack of empathy. He is unable to see the suffering of others, which is evident in his treatment of his enemies and even his friends. This lack of empathy makes it difficult for him to grasp the true meaning of justice and the consequences of his actions.
The play also highlights Heywood’s pride and ego, which often cloud his judgment. He believes that he is justified in his actions because he is acting out of a sense of justice. However, this pride and ego prevent him from seeing the bigger picture and the long-term consequences of his actions.
In conclusion, what was wrong with Heywood in “Poetic Justice” is his lack of self-awareness, his tendency to take the law into his own hands, his lack of empathy, and his pride and ego. These flaws in his character make it difficult for him to achieve true poetic justice and leave audiences questioning the true nature of justice and retribution.
