Everyman

Definition

Everyman is a central character in the late 15th-century morality play that explores the theme of death and the human condition, embodying the universal experiences of mankind. This character represents all people, facing the inevitability of death and seeking salvation, making him a vital figure in medieval literature and drama, which often focused on moral lessons and spiritual reflection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The play 'Everyman' serves as an allegory for the journey of life, where Everyman must confront Death and embark on a quest for salvation.
2. 'Everyman' features other characters like Fellowship, Goods, and Knowledge, who represent various aspects of human experience but ultimately abandon Everyman in his time of need.
3. The moral lesson of 'Everyman' emphasizes that material wealth and earthly connections cannot accompany one in death; only good deeds can lead to salvation.
4. The play has been influential in shaping the structure of later morality plays and drama, showcasing how personal accountability affects one's fate after death.
5. 'Everyman' reflects the religious and cultural values of its time, urging audiences to consider their own lives in relation to faith, morality, and the afterlife.

Review Questions

• How does Everyman's character serve as a representation of universal human experiences in the context of medieval morality plays?
  • Everyman's character embodies the universal struggle against mortality and the quest for salvation, making him relatable to audiences across different backgrounds. He represents all humanity, facing the inevitable moment of death and seeking redemption through good deeds. This reflects the core themes of morality plays, where individual actions determine one's fate in the afterlife, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own lives and choices.
• Discuss how 'Everyman' utilizes allegory to convey its moral message about life and death.
  • 'Everyman' employs allegorical figures such as Fellowship, Goods, and Knowledge to illustrate various temptations and distractions that humans face throughout life. These characters symbolize the transient nature of earthly attachments, highlighting that they cannot aid Everyman when he faces Death. The play's central message is clear: true value lies in one's actions and virtues rather than material wealth or superficial relationships, reinforcing the importance of preparing for one’s end through moral living.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Everyman' on later developments in drama and literature, especially regarding themes of morality and redemption.
  • 'Everyman' has had a lasting influence on subsequent works by establishing a framework for exploring moral themes in literature and drama. Its emphasis on personal accountability and the consequences of one’s actions resonates with later narratives, prompting writers to delve into similar existential questions. The legacy of this play can be seen in how modern stories continue to grapple with morality, emphasizing that regardless of time or culture, individuals must confront their own choices and ultimately seek redemption.

Related terms

Morality Play: A genre of medieval drama that uses allegorical characters to teach moral lessons and reflect on ethical dilemmas faced by individuals.

Allegory: A narrative technique in which characters and events symbolize deeper meanings, often used to convey moral or spiritual lessons.

Death: A key theme in medieval literature and drama, often personified as a character that confronts humanity with the reality of mortality and the need for redemption.