Scapegoat (trope/archetype):
* Definition: A scapegoat is a person or group that is unfairly blamed for wrongdoing, problems, or misfortunes. This often happens to deflect blame from the real culprits or to create a sense of unity by uniting people against a common "enemy."
* Purpose in literature:
* Character development: Scapegoating can reveal a character's flaws, prejudices, or moral compass.
* Social commentary: It can expose societal injustices, power dynamics, and prejudice.
* Plot development: It can create conflict, tension, or a catalyst for change.
* Theme exploration: It can address themes of guilt, forgiveness, justice, and responsibility.
Examples in literature:
* The Bible: The story of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16, where a goat is symbolically burdened with the sins of the Israelites.
* Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice": Shylock is unjustly scapegoated for his Jewish faith and subjected to prejudice and persecution.
* Arthur Miller's "The Crucible": The witch hunt in Salem is fueled by scapegoating, as innocent individuals are accused of witchcraft to deflect blame and consolidate power.
Important points:
* The scapegoat is often powerless or marginalized, making them easier targets.
* Scapegoating can have devastating consequences for the individual or group unfairly blamed.
* It's important to recognize and challenge scapegoating in real life and in literature, as it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and injustices.
While "scapegoat" isn't a formal literary device, it's a powerful and recurring theme in literature and society. Understanding this archetype helps us analyze stories, understand human behavior, and critique social structures.