The Role of Death as a Symbol
The character of Death serves as the symbol of inevitable fate, which no one can escape. Death’s arrival is a reminder that time is limited, and the play encourages the audience to reflect on how they will prepare for judgment. Death’s role is both forceful and unavoidable, symbolizing the impermanence of life and the fact that earthly pleasures and achievements cannot delay or prevent death's arrival.
3. The Moral Lesson: Preparation for the Afterlife
The central moral lesson of the play is that human beings must prepare for the afterlife by living a virtuous life and performing good deeds. Through his journey, Everyman learns that his worldly possessions, including his wealth, beauty, and relationships, will not accompany him into death. Instead, it is the spiritual actions, such as penance, repentance, and the support of Good Deeds, that will determine his fate after death.
The Play’s Message
The play emphasizes that the true value of life lies not in the pursuit of material wealth or fleeting pleasures, but in a life that is aligned with moral righteousness and spiritual growth. Everyman’s moral journey reflects the idea that moral responsibility and spiritual awareness are essential for salvation.
Conclusion:
In "The Summoning of Everyman," the use of allegorical characters and symbolism is essential to the development of the story and the communication of its moral lesson. The characters serve as representations of human traits, virtues, and vices, while the symbolism of the settings and actions reinforces the central message of the ephemeral nature of earthly life and the importance of moral integrity. By exploring the conflict between worldly desires and spiritual redemption, the play presents a timeless moral lesson about the necessity of preparing for the inevitable end of life through virtuous living and spiritual reflection. Through the allegory, Everyman serves as a representation of all humanity, urging the audience to reflect on their own lives and actions in light of their ultimate judgment.