Entry Three: Section 2

   In this most recent section, Edmond Dantes has taken on a multitude of aliases through which he does certain deeds. He dresses himself as the Abbe when he is placing someone in the position to be judged, an Englishman (whom he refers to as Lord Wilmore) when he is being excessively generous, Sinbad The Sailor when he partakes in schemes that are a tad more eccentric, and Monte Cristo when he commits his acts of revenge. As a reader, I was happy to know that even in the midst of Dantes new-found wealth and intellect he chose to forgive one of his captors upon his return to Marseilles, Caderousse. It is also a relief to find out that rather than punish Caderousee, Dantes believes his remorse for his actions years ago are genuine and rewards him with the gift of a large diamond. Then, dressed as Lord Wilmore, it was fantastic to see Dantes visit his old boss Morrell. The sailing company has fallen into financial unrest as it's most successful ship, the Pharaon, was lost at sea. What a spectacular turn of events it was for Dantes to buy all of the stock, relieve every debt, as well as pay for Morrell's daughter, Julie's, dowry allowing her to marry.The Pharaon's safe return to the harbor, original cargo in tact, was merely the icing on the cake. It was also delightful to, through the text, experience the luxury in which Dantes lives. At the time that Dantes entertains Franz, a Parisian scholar, in his getaway on the island, we are invited into a world of riches, comfort, and worldly experiences. On the other side of things, I do not like the way Albert carries himself in this section of the reading. He is lured into a romantic trap by Teresa, Luigi Vampi's beloved. Even once he has been kidnapped and his ranson drawn up, he refuses to take the situation seriously despite the fact that he could have shortly faced his death. Of course, it was a relief that Dantes was able to intervene and right the situation, but I still feel as though crucial psychological development must be made regarding this character. Something not only dissapointing, but a tad disturbing, is Dantes contorted emotional basis. Due to years of reward and revenge, his psychological make up has become almost the exact opposite of a normal person. He revels in hurting those he deems deserves it while he fears the idea of being happy. He is just as proud of the instances in which he helps those that deserve it as he is proud of the instance in which he brutally takes revenge on those he deems deserve it. These elements make his character extremely interesting, yet simultaneously terrifying. When Dantes visits Mercedes it is wonderful to see that she recognizes him, as this proves the strength of her love after so many years. However, it is devastating to see that there is no longer opportunity for them to be together because, believing Dantes to be dead, Mercedes has married Ferdinand and started a family with him. A new character introduced during this section that was particularly intriguing was Haydee. She is Dantes young mistress, as well as a Greek woman draped in Oriental luxury. During the time of Romanticism, writers were obsessed with the mystery they associated with the Orient, causing oriental woman to appear much more appealing than European woman. Dantes is also drawn to the girl by his half-compassionate nature, taking a sympathetic view of a woman who was forced to endure a war wrought with trial and tribulation. (You can read more about that here --> http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Greek_War_of_Independence) The Greek War of Independence only created more European intrigue for a location that they considered foreign and exotic. This interest played a big role in the writings of numerous romantics, such as Dumas himself, and allowed characters like Haydee to assumes significance at the forefront of his novels.

   This video was created by an organization in Europe that chooses to oppose the death penalty. That topic comes into play in Monte Cristo when Dantes discusses his views on capitol punishment. Admittedly, some of these opinions could be described as horrific to readers, and likely to anyone but Dantes himself as his mind has become so warped. He expresses that a death penalty is not enough, furthermore, criminals should be forced to undergo much more suffering than a mere few moments of punishment. This provides the insight that he does not feel satisfied until he puts his enemies through as much pain as they put him through. This is an alarming thought, as in his wealth and power he has become extremely intelligent. That alone combined with his mobility and ability to buy anything necessary makes his elaborate plans of revenge on Danglars and Villefort something to cringe at. Within this revelation about human justice, Villefort is also alluded to. He is described as a man unfit to accomplish any true justice, as he seeks only to elevate himself within the world and does not even follow all of the laws he strictly holds criminals to. It can be predicted that Dantes could use these hypocritical elements of Villefort to not only cause physical pain, but emotional and psychological break down as well.