Revenge as a didactic exercise in seventeenth-century schools

What is it about?

This article explores the striking prominence of the theme of revenge in seventeenth-century school dramas performed in Jesuit schools. Didactic theatre, commonly staged by pupils, was a widespread educational practice during this period. My analysis focuses on the popular biblical story of Joseph and his brothers from Genesis chapters 37 and 39–50. In examining over a hundred versions of this narrative in school theatre, I was particularly struck by a unique trend: only the versions originating from Jesuit schools place significant emphasis on the possibility of Joseph seeking revenge on his brothers, a theme absent in other adaptations. This is especially remarkable given that the essence of the story is about forgiveness, not revenge. Why, then, did these Jesuit authors consider it so important to imagine Joseph grappling with the temptation of vengeance?

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Photo by Kyle Head on Unsplash

Photo by Kyle Head on Unsplash

Why is it important?

I argue that introducing the possibility of revenge, only to ultimately reject it, creates a powerful didactic moment for both the pupil-actors and the audience of these plays. First, it acknowledges the hidden desires of the audience: after witnessing the cruelty inflicted on Joseph by his brothers, would they not feel a natural urge to see justice served and the wrongdoers punished? By first presenting revenge as a legitimate and plausible reaction, the act of forgiveness becomes significantly more impactful and thought-provoking. Moreover, revenge is not depicted as purely negative. These plays highlight that individuals in positions of great authority, like Joseph—who serves as both a viceroy and a judge—bear the responsibility to address wrongdoing, sometimes through punishment. This duality reflects a deeper moral dilemma, particularly relevant to the pupils of Jesuit colleges, many of whom would go on to become magistrates. The tension between rightful retribution and Christian forgiveness mirrors the ethical challenges they were likely to face in their professional lives, offering a profound lesson on justice, mercy, and moral responsibility.

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