The Moral of The Revenant: Revenge and Redemption
The Moral of The Revenant: Revenge and Redemption
The moral of The Revenant, directed by Alejandro González I?árritu, is a profound exploration of the human condition, focusing on themes of survival, revenge, and the quest for inner peace. Set in the harsh environment of the 1820s North American wilderness, the film serves as a meditation on the struggles of life, the complexity of human motivations, and the enduring quest for meaning and justice. The Revenant is not just a tale of survival, but a melancholic path to redemption.
Survival and Resilience
The protagonist Hugh Glass, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, embodies the struggle for survival against the harsh elements of nature and human betrayal. His journey through the wild illustrates the instinctual drive to endure and overcome incredible obstacles. Glass’s strength and resilience are not merely physical but also mental, as he fights against the overwhelming adversity that nature and circumstances throw at him.
The Consequences of Revenge
The Revenant delves into the moral quandary of revenge. The quest for vengeance against John Fitzgerald, played by Tom Hardy, is a consequence of betrayal and loss. Glass’s pursuit of justice against Fitzgerald raises profound questions about the cost of vengeance. While it may provide a sense of closure, it also leads to further violence and suffering, as seen in the final confrontation between Glass and Fitzgerald.
Connection to Nature
The film emphasizes the relationship between humans and the natural world, highlighting both the beauty and brutality of nature. It suggests that respecting nature is essential for survival. Nature, in The Revenant, is a relentless and unforgiving force that both supports and threatens Glass’s life. This relationship serves as a metaphor for the struggles he encounters and the strength he must draw from within.
Isolation and Humanity
Throughout the film, Glass’s isolation forces him to confront his own humanity and the bonds he shares with others, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world. His encounters with nature and other characters, such as the Indigenous man who helps him and eventually abandons his own quest for vengeance, serve to highlight the complexities of human nature and the importance of understanding one’s own motives.
The Final Lessons of Revenge
The moral of the film is encapsulated in a poignant and reflective scene where Glass finally confronts Fitzgerald. During their confrontation, Fitzgerald delivers a crucial line: "You better enjoy it. 'Cause it ain’t never gonna bring him back." This line is the final point of Glass’s journey, illustrating that revenge, no matter how satisfying, cannot bring back the lost. The film’s conclusion shows Glass releasing the man who killed his son, demonstrating a profound understanding and wisdom he has gained.
Throughout the film, Glass’s journey is one of cyclical vengeance. He has already taken revenge once, as depicted in a flashback, and the experience left him miserable and lost. This past experience underscores the futility of revenge and reinforces the film’s message about redemption. The final scene, where Glass sees his wife in his vision, symbolizes a sense of closure and the possibility of moving forward.
The Revenant is a powerful exploration of human resilience and the complex nature of human motivations. It serves as a cautionary tale about the futility of revenge and the importance of finding forgiveness and redemption. Through its vivid and poignant narrative, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make in the face of adversity.