Passage Summary:
In this passage, Bacon discusses the notion of revenge, why some seek it, and the consequences of this fixation.
When and How to Pair:
Introduce this text after students have completed Chapter 9, as it shares the novel’s theme of revenge. The Greasers are seeking revenge on the Socs which, according to Sir Francis Bacon, is an action not worth carrying out, because of the possible consequences and what it often means to dwell on old rivalries. Ask students to evaluate the motivations and consequences of revenge. How do they feel about the planned rumble in the novel? How do they think it will turn out? What consequences may results from the rumble? Ask students to consider Bacon’s reference to “profit, pleasure, and honour.” With this in mind, ask them to consider what they think would make the rumble worthwhile to the characters within the novel?