Seven deadly sins

Definition

The seven deadly sins are a classification of vices in Christian teachings that are considered to lead to further immoral behavior. These sins include pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth, and they serve as a moral framework for understanding human weaknesses. Within the context of morality plays, these sins are often personified and depicted allegorically to teach moral lessons and encourage virtuous living.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of the seven deadly sins has its roots in early Christian teachings, particularly in the writings of theologians like Pope Gregory I and Thomas Aquinas.
2. In morality plays, each sin is often represented by a character who embodies its traits, allowing audiences to see the consequences of succumbing to these vices.
3. These sins were used as cautionary symbols to warn individuals against immoral behavior and promote self-reflection on their actions.
4. The seven deadly sins are often juxtaposed with the seven heavenly virtues, which include humility, charity, chastity, gratitude, temperance, patience, and diligence.
5. Morality plays like 'Everyman' showcase the struggle between good and evil, using the seven deadly sins as key obstacles that characters must confront on their journey towards salvation.

Review Questions

• How do morality plays use the concept of the seven deadly sins to convey moral lessons?
  • Morality plays utilize the seven deadly sins by personifying them as characters who interact with the protagonist. This interaction serves to highlight the consequences of each sin while illustrating the moral struggle faced by individuals. The depiction of these vices allows audiences to understand the pitfalls of immoral behavior and reinforces the importance of making virtuous choices in life.
• Discuss the relationship between the seven deadly sins and didacticism in medieval literature.
  • The relationship between the seven deadly sins and didacticism is significant in medieval literature as these vices are often used to teach moral lessons. By incorporating these sins into narratives, writers aimed to instruct audiences on proper behavior and ethics. Didacticism is achieved through the exploration of these themes, allowing readers or viewers to reflect on their own actions in light of the portrayed consequences of succumbing to sin.
• Evaluate how the depiction of the seven deadly sins in morality plays reflects societal values during the medieval period.
  • The depiction of the seven deadly sins in morality plays reflects societal values of the medieval period by emphasizing the importance of virtue and moral integrity. These plays served as a mirror for society's beliefs about sin and redemption, highlighting common fears regarding moral failings. The vivid portrayals of vice not only entertained but also educated audiences on acceptable conduct, showcasing a collective effort to instill ethical standards that aligned with religious teachings and community expectations.

Related terms

Allegory:

A narrative technique in which characters and events symbolize broader themes and concepts, often conveying moral, ethical, or political messages.

Didacticism:

A philosophy that emphasizes the importance of teaching and instructing through literature or art, often aiming to impart moral lessons.

Virtue: Behavior showing high moral standards; in contrast to the deadly sins, virtues represent the qualities that promote good character and ethical conduct.