What's a little punch for good measure? See, in Thérèse Raquin, violence can be either an empowering or a destructive force. When Thérèse and Laurent are prevented from satisfying their lust, they resort to murdering Camille. The fact that they're able to get away with murder suggests that violence is an effective tool for removing obstacles. But Thérèse and Laurent soon realize that their marriage is an utter farce, and they turn on each other. As their violence toward one another escalates, it becomes a strange source of relief that distracts them from the misery of their married life. Please don't try this at home, Shmoopers.
Questions About Violence
- What causes Thérèse and Laurent to resort to killing Camille? How is this an example of scientific determinism—a.k.a., their lack of free will?
- Camille leaves a mark of violence on Laurent's neck when he bites him. What effect does this scar have on Laurent? On Thérèse and Laurent's coupling?
- Why does Laurent become increasingly violent toward Thérèse after they are married?
- What causes Laurent and Thérèse to decide to kill each other? And why do they ultimately commit suicide together instead?
Chew on This
Violence can be both a solution to one's problems and a source of new problems.
Self-inflicted violence is the only way for the murderers to find peace.