Everyman Group

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jasther
jasther
Student
College - Freshman

What is meant by the reversal theme in Everyman?

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Posted by jasther on Sunday April 20, 2008 at 5:12 PM and tagged with everyman, reversal, theme.

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  1. gbeatty Teacher
    College - Freshman

    eNotes Editor

    This is a case where the plot structure and the meaning of the work align nicely. By that I mean, it seems like things are going more and more in one direction for Everyman. He's been called for God for judgment, but when he asks all of his companions/the things he's valued in life to go with him, he's disappointed. None can or will come with him. This creates a depressing feel and a kind of downward momentum—perhaps downward to hell, if you take the cosmic model literally. However, Good Deeds goes with him. This reverses the plot direction, the play's emotions, and the message: we don't have to face judgment alone. Our works will go with us and speak for us.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/everyman/summary

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    Posted by gbeatty on Monday April 21, 2008 at 10:14 AM