Respuesta :

Although centuries have passed and drama has taken on new venues, from the stage, to radio, to the big screen, the creation of Everyman is an everlasting masterpiece. The unknown author created a story that could entertain an audience while teaching a moral lesson. The play was written with a vernacular that could relate to common townspeople of medieval times but could also relate to modern, twenty-first century theatre and movie patrons. In a time when the Christian Church is no longer a stronghold in society and freedom from religious persecution is a right afforded in most countries across the globe, a play of this religious nature can still be enjoyed by many people. The religious tones of the story aid in teaching an important moral lesson without becoming overbearing. Regardless of religious affiliation, all men and women are to be held accountable for their lives. The test will come when worldly goods are worthless and companions are treacherous. When that time is presented only the knowledge possessed and the good deeds accomplished can determine the fate of a human. The play Everyman reads, “And he that hath his account whole and sound, /High in heaven he shall be crowned” (Everyman 2141). The story of Everyman is an all-encompassing play that could very well be an abstract of humanity.

Answer:

Fate is the power controlling everything that takes place in the world. Free will is the ability to create one’s own destiny without being controlled by fate. The play Everyman shows the power of destiny when it comes to the inevitability of death. Everyman cannot evade the chosen time of his death or exercise his free will to delay it. God has already decided his fate. The character’s folly is that he did not exercise his free will to lead a better life when he had the chance. Instead he gave in to worldly pleasures and has become a slave to the seven deadly sins. The play reinforces the medieval idea that no one can avoid their day of reckoning; however, if a person is willing to repent for his or her sinful deeds, then God will offer forgiveness and a place in heaven.