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Betrayal Essay | Short Paragraph and Long Essay on Betrayal in English

July 22, 2021 by Prasanna

Betrayal Essay: Everybody commits errors in their day-to-day existence. In any case, there’s one thing that is something awful to do, Betray. Deceiving is exceptionally passionate and can hurt somebody profoundly (embarrass). Individuals typically lie now and again as well. In the book Uglies, the fundamental person lies and deceives her dearest companions. The book instructs us that we should feel remorseful about deceiving and should attempt to fix our betrayals.

Trust is established for connections. It requires a very long time to assemble, seconds to annihilate. All through life, an individual gives one’s trust to individuals she thinks often about. Betrayal. A demonstration of unfaithfulness. In a moment, all that was based on that common trust can be broken. It will all come disintegrating down with one mix-up. One demonstration of Betrayal.

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Short Paragraph on Betrayal

The closest companion is the individual you depend on the most. She’s somebody you would trust with your life, your mysteries, and your feelings. You gradually let her into your heart and the trust gathers over the long haul. A bond is framed over those mysteries, a kinship that will last. Never again is anything untouchable, and if that individual ever needs to talk, somebody will be there.

One second can transform everything. The individual you thought was your comrade ends up being a deceiver. The entirety of the mysteries and shared feelings are convoluted and utilized against you. Your shortcomings are played until you separate and are gradually destroyed. At last, the individual is perceived as the truth about. The entirety of the reports and the alleged untruths are valid. You, being the better individual, attempted to look past them, assuming the best about your companion. Yet, when reality comes out and the untruths begin to disentangle, what do you have left? When do you know to release a fellowship and when to hang on? Starting there on, all the trust you once had for your companion is gone and it can never be reconstructed.

At the point when you depend on somebody with your privileged insights, you are depending on her to respect them. Your sentiments ought to be brought into account in dynamic. Yet, when you are overlooked, deceived, there is no returning. The individual you however she was is gone. All that is left are sensations of hurt, addressing where you turned out badly and how excessively more forward. Unexpectedly, companionship is finished.

Long Essay on Betrayal

Betrayal is a word from Middle English and it was initially betrayed. There are numerous types of disloyalty, and it is entirely expected inside a culture to have shifting levels of discipline for double-crossing, the vast majority of which are somewhat extreme as it is viewed as one of the more difficult and unsympathetic demonstrations an individual may do.

Practically all selling out includes a type of deliberation, including if the double-crossing is through a demonstration of omittance. It includes utilizing the trust that has been developed and procured for individual use or gain. The trust is frequently broken once the double-crossing is plainly apparent.

It is viewed as an extreme demonstration since it is something beyond lying. Individuals may deceive to acquire trust to double-cross it, yet the truth of the matter is that lying on its own legitimacy isn’t just about as awful as disloyalty. An individual may deceive another with no type of trust existing, and the more trust that has been fabricated then the greater the double-crossing. There is frequently a measure of lying engaged with selling out, however, this isn’t generally the situation.

An individual may kill out of retribution or assist with facilitating enduring, yet since selling out requires trust and the breaking of that trust, it is viewed as more unsympathetic. An individual may comprehend a robbery to take care of a family, however, individuals once in a while comprehend a planned demonstration of building trust to break that trust for individual increase.

Assuming a trust has been set up, supporting the foe of the one that trusts are still disloyal. It is additionally selling out in the event that one uses the trust of one individual (or thing) to acquire the trust of someone else (or thing); the thing might be an organization or even a country. The more drawn out the trust is kept up with after the double-crossing, then, at that point the more serious the demonstration of Betrayal is.

Following six years of marriage, a lady may lay down with another man. This is a Betrayal on the grounds that there was a guarantee of monogamy, in addition to the inferred feelings and sentiments that are attached with the lady asserting she is infatuated are all important for guarantees dependent on trust. The lady says she has certain sensations of adoration to where she weds in a huge representative motion inferring she means to go through her life with only one man–both inwardly, truly and physically. These are generally the trust-building components, and the genuine issue is the place of Betrayal. If the man discovers, he has still been deceived. The selling out deteriorates the more drawn out the lady denies enlightening the man concerning her betrayal.

Betrayal is the demonstration of building trust and afterward utilizing that trust for individual addition. It frequently includes breaking the trust and regularly includes lying. Betrayal is anything that carries on the interest of a person or thing when that person or thing has been persuaded that would not occur.

FAQ’s on Betrayal Essay

Question 1. What is betrayal?

Answer: Betrayal is the demonstration of building trust and afterward utilizing that trust for individual increase. It regularly includes breaking the trust and frequently includes lying. Treachery is anything that carries on the interest of a person or thing when that person or thing has been persuaded that would not occur.

Question 2. What does betrayal do to a person?

Answer: The impacts of double-crossing incorporate shock, misfortune and distress, dreary pre-occupation, harmed confidence, self-questioning, outrage. Not rarely do they produce life-changing changes. The impacts of calamitous disloyalty are generally significant for uneasiness issues.

Question 3. What is an example of betrayal?

Answer: An illustration of a sell-out is the point at which you confess to insider facts and deceive trust. An illustration of a sell-out is the point at which you wheeze and your adversary is then ready to discover you. To convey under the control of a foe by injustice or extortion, infringing upon trust; to surrender misleadingly or irresolutely; as an official double-crossed the city.

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How to Describe Betrayal in Writing (21 Best Tips + Examples)

Betrayal plays a critical role in literature. It helps build tension, conflict, and can be used as a powerful narrative tool to catalyze change in your characters and plot.

Here’s how to describe betrayal in writing:

Describe betrayal in writing by conveying the element of surprise, motivations of the betrayer, emotional and mental impacts, reactions of the betrayed, and the role it plays in plot progression. Use literary tools such as foreshadowing, symbolism, and metaphors for enhanced portrayal.

If you’re looking to breathe life into the betrayals in your narratives, this article will walk you through 21 best tips and examples.

21 Elements to Accurately Describe Betrayal in Writing

Cartoon woman and green alien - How to Describe Betrayal in Writing

Table of Contents

Here’s a peek at the different elements we’ll be breaking down in this guide:

Element of Surprise : The unexpected nature of betrayal that amplifies its impact.
Motivations : The reasons behind the betrayal, often revealing more about the betrayer’s character.
Timing : The point in the narrative when the betrayal occurs, determining its influence on the story progression.
Person/Role : The identity of the betrayer and their relationship with the betrayed, shaping the significance and implications of the betrayal.
Mental Impact : The psychological consequences on the characters involved, reflecting their resilience, vulnerability, and growth.
Emotional Impact : The emotional aftermath of betrayal, leading to feelings of hurt, anger, and possibly a desire for revenge.
Foreshadowing : Hints or clues given prior to the betrayal that adds depth to the narrative.
Reactions : The responses of the characters involved, showcasing their personality traits and character development.
Plot Progression : The role of betrayal in moving the story forward or leading to crucial plot twists.
Symbolism and Metaphors : Literary tools used to enhance the portrayal and understanding of betrayal.
Trust Issues : The erosion or loss of trust as a consequence of betrayal, affecting future relationships and character interactions.
Betrayer’s Perspective : Insight into the betrayer’s feelings, thoughts, and rationale, adding complexity to their character.
Duality of Betrayal : The idea that betrayal can be viewed differently depending on the circumstances, challenging the conventional perception of right and wrong.
Public vs. Private Betrayal : The differences in impact and implications depending on the betrayal’s visibility.
Betrayal of Self : The concept of a character betraying their own principles or identity, adding depth to their internal conflict.
Betrayal as a Theme : The recurring presence of betrayal in a narrative, highlighting broader themes such as loyalty, trust, and human nature.

Tip 1: Timing is Everything

Whether it’s a knife in the back or a soft whisper of deceit, timing is everything when it comes to betrayal.

It can make or break the narrative impact of your betrayal, and should be carefully considered.

Betrayal can strike when a character is at their highest point.

Or it can push an already desperate character further into despair.

While a well-timed betrayal can add a layer of shock to your narrative, an ill-timed betrayal can feel forced or unnecessary.

Your reader needs to believe in the betrayal.

A big part of that is ensuring it occurs at a point in the narrative that makes sense.

For instance, consider a loyal soldier who turns against his king in the heat of battle.

If this betrayal happens right after the king and the soldier have shared a moment of camaraderie, the shock and emotional impact are compounded.

Tip 2: Role-play the Betrayal

The person betraying and the one being betrayed play pivotal roles in your narrative.

The closer their relationship, the more potent the betrayal. Whether it’s best friends, lovers, siblings, or colleagues, the role of the betrayer can significantly influence how the betrayal impacts your story.

The person being betrayed is equally important.

The impact of the betrayal can be magnified if they are a sympathetic character.

Or if they’ve already suffered significantly in the narrative.

Their reaction to the betrayal can serve as a catalyst for character development or further plot complications.

Tip 3: Delve into the Mental Impact

The mental impact of a betrayal is a vital aspect that requires due attention.

It’s not just about the shock or the anger—it’s about the shattered trust, the feeling of being played, and the doubt that seeps into every crevice of their mind.

As a writer, it’s your job to make your readers feel that pain alongside your character.

You can achieve this by showing the mental struggles your character goes through in the aftermath of the betrayal.

Explore their confusion, the paranoia, the questions they ask themselves.

In The Great Gatsby , when Daisy Buchanan betrays Gatsby, he grapples with an immense mental impact.

Gatsby’s world, which was built around Daisy, crumbles down and his mental turmoil is evident in his subsequent actions.

Tip 4: Paint the Emotional Impact

After the mental impact, comes the emotional fallout.

It’s important to illustrate the emotional repercussions of betrayal in your narrative.

It’s not just about the shock or anger.

The sense of loss, feeling of abandonment, and the grief are equally significant.

Different characters will react differently to the same betrayal, and exploring these individual reactions can add depth to your characters.

Moreover, the emotional aftermath can serve as a catalyst for character growth and drive the plot forward.

In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban , when Sirius Black is thought to have betrayed Harry’s parents, the sense of hurt and betrayal is palpable.

Harry’s emotional turmoil helps to illustrate the gravity of Sirius’s supposed treachery.

Tip 5: The Shock Factor

The surprise or shock factor is a crucial component of betrayal.

Your readers may expect some plot twists and turns.

But the goal is to make the betrayal unexpected enough to deliver a jolt.

You can do this by carefully laying down misleading hints and diverting attention away from the impending betrayal.

Remember, the shock factor isn’t about blind-siding your readers.

It’s about setting up a situation where the betrayal, while surprising, still makes sense within the context of your story.

The shock factor should add depth to your narrative and enhance the reading experience.

Consider Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk.

When the protagonist finds out that Tyler Durden is a part of his own personality, the shock factor is incredibly powerful.

This revelation adds a whole new layer to the narrative and sends readers reeling.

Tip 6: Highlight the Reaction

How your character reacts to betrayal is a vital aspect of your story.

It reveals a lot about their personality, their resilience, and their capacity for forgiveness or revenge.

Whether they fall apart, seek revenge, or decide to rise above it all, their reaction can open new paths for your narrative to take.

The reaction need not be immediate.

In fact, sometimes, it’s more realistic and powerful if your character needs time to process what’s happened.

Their reaction could even be a gradual transformation throughout the rest of your story.

A good examples is in The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas.

When Edmond Dantès is betrayed, his initial reaction is one of shock and despair.

However, as the story progresses, his reaction transforms into a calculated quest for revenge that makes up the crux of the story.

Tip 7: Understanding the Motive

The motivation behind the act of betrayal can add layers of complexity to your characters.

The reasons for betrayal can be as varied as your characters themselves – power, fear, jealousy, or even a misguided attempt to do the right thing.

Delving into the betrayer’s motives helps create a more nuanced character and gives readers a chance to empathize with them.

Even if their actions are wrong, their motivations might still be relatable.

In Othello , Iago’s betrayal of Othello stems from his bitterness at being passed over for a promotion and his suspicion that Othello might have been intimate with his wife.

His motivations, while not justifying his actions, make his character more complex and intriguing.

Tip 8: Reveal the Consequences

Betrayal is a powerful narrative tool because it sets off a domino effect of consequences.

The aftermath of a betrayal can lead to character growth, plot twists, and conflicts, which are integral parts of storytelling.

When dealing with the consequences of betrayal, think beyond the immediate.

Betrayal can have long-lasting effects that reverberate throughout your narrative. It’s also worth remembering that the consequences can be both negative and positive.

In The Kite Runner , Amir’s betrayal of Hassan has far-reaching consequences that stretch over years and impact both their lives.

The guilt that follows Amir leads to his eventual redemption.

Tip 9: The Complexity of Forgiveness

Handling the concept of forgiveness in the context of betrayal adds an emotional depth to your narrative.

It explores the capability of your characters to move beyond their past, grow, and perhaps, find some peace.

Remember, forgiveness doesn’t always mean forgetting.

It doesn’t even necessarily mean the relationship goes back to how it was. It could also mean accepting what happened and finding a way to live with it.

In Atonement by Ian McEwan, Briony’s betrayal has profound consequences.

The narrative explores the complex issue of forgiveness and the lengths Briony goes to seek atonement.

Tip 10: Show Betrayal through Actions, Not Words

In writing, it’s often more impactful to show rather than tell.

The same holds true when dealing with betrayal.

Showing the act of betrayal through the betrayer’s actions, rather than merely stating that they betrayed someone, can leave a much stronger impact on your readers.

This involves careful character development and narrative buildup, leading to the act of betrayal.

The aftermath should also be shown through the consequences, reactions, and the emotional and mental impact.

For instance, in Game of Thrones , Petyr Baelish’s betrayal of Ned Stark is shown rather than told.

We see Baelish’s actions leading up to the betrayal, the act itself, and the aftermath, leaving readers with a clear understanding of his deceit.

Tip 11: The Severity of Betrayal

Betrayal can range from a minor setback to a life-altering event.

It’s essential to gauge the severity of the betrayal in your narrative and to depict it accordingly.

The gravity of the betrayal can directly impact the character’s reaction and the narrative’s progression.

Remember, even a minor act of betrayal can feel monumental depending on the characters involved and their emotional investment.

Similarly, a severe betrayal might not have the anticipated impact.

Particularly, if the character being betrayed is resilient or emotionally detached.

In Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games , when Peeta teams up with the Careers to hunt Katniss, it feels like a severe betrayal to her.

The severity of this act shapes Katniss’s attitude towards Peeta and affects their relationship dynamic throughout the series.

Tip 12: The Subtlety of Betrayal

Not all betrayals need to be grand, dramatic reveals.

Sometimes, subtler betrayals can be just as impactful, if not more so.

This could be a friend sharing a secret they promised to keep, or a mentor subtly undermining their protégé.

Subtle betrayals can add depth to your characters, revealing their flaws and complexities.

These can also help to build tension in your narrative, leading up to bigger reveals or conflicts.

In Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Mr. Wickham subtly betrays Elizabeth Bennet by manipulating her prejudices against Mr. Darcy.

The subtlety of this betrayal contributes to Elizabeth’s misjudgment of both men.

Tip 13: The Role of Betrayal in Character Development

Betrayal can play a significant role in character development.

It can be a catalyst that propels your character into a new arc, shaping their personality, actions, and relationships.

How a character deals with betrayal—whether they choose revenge, forgiveness, or a path of self-discovery—can say a lot about them.

This makes betrayal a powerful tool for showing character growth and transformation.

In Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, Jane’s betrayal by Mr. Rochester—when she discovers he’s already married—pushes her to leave Thornfield.

This betrayal leads to Jane’s significant character development as she asserts her independence and moral values.

Tip 14: Betrayal as a Catalyst for Plot Progression

Betrayal can be a highly effective tool for driving your plot forward.

It can throw your characters into unexpected situations, force them to make difficult choices, and lead to consequences that change the direction of your story.

Betrayal can shake up the status quo, create conflict, and introduce new obstacles for your characters to overcome.

This makes it an excellent tool for maintaining suspense and keeping your readers engaged.

Tip 15: Symbolism and Metaphors in Betrayal

Utilizing symbolism and metaphors can add an extra layer of depth to the portrayal of betrayal in your narrative.

These literary devices can help convey the emotional and psychological impact of betrayal, making it more relatable and impactful for your readers.

Consider using symbols that signify trust, bond, or loyalty, and show how these are broken or corrupted.

Metaphors can help express the feelings of your characters in a more vivid and imaginative manner.

In The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, Edmund’s betrayal is symbolized by his craving for the Turkish Delight offered by the White Witch.

It represents his willingness to betray his siblings for his own selfish desires.

Tip 16: The Aftermath: Trust Issues

One of the most significant repercussions of betrayal is the erosion of trust.

It can forever change the dynamics of the relationship between the betrayer and the betrayed.

Exploring this aspect can add realism to your story and help readers connect with your characters on a deeper level.

Portraying the struggle of the betrayed character to trust again.

Or the betrayer’s efforts to regain trust, can add emotional depth to your narrative.

It’s also a realistic depiction of the lingering effects of betrayal.

Tip 17: Betrayal from the Betrayer’s Perspective

While the perspective of the person being betrayed is important, considering the point of view of the betrayer can be equally intriguing.

This can provide insight into their motivations, guilt, or lack thereof, and add complexity to their character.

Does the betrayer feel justified in their actions, or do they wrestle with guilt? Are they cold and calculated, or are they torn by their choices?

Exploring these questions can create a well-rounded perspective.

In Breaking Bad , we often see Walter White’s perspective on his numerous betrayals.

Understanding his motives and witnessing his internal conflict makes the narrative more engaging and thought-provoking.

Tip 18: The Duality of Betrayal

Betrayal, despite its negative connotation, can sometimes be painted in shades of gray.

It might be necessary or even the “right” thing to do under certain circumstances.

Exploring this duality can make your narrative more intriguing and stimulate thought-provoking questions about morality.

This duality doesn’t make the act any less painful, but it does add layers of complexity to the situation.

It can challenge your readers to empathize with the betrayer, making your story more nuanced.

In Les Misérables by Victor Hugo, Javert betrays Jean Valjean, despite Valjean having saved his life. This betrayal, rooted in Javert’s unwavering belief in the law, emphasizes the duality of his actions.

Tip 19: Public vs. Private Betrayal

The impact of betrayal can be heightened or lessened depending on whether it’s a private affair or a public spectacle.

Public betrayals can lead to humiliation and damage the victim’s reputation, while private betrayals can result in silent suffering.

Public betrayals can be especially dramatic, offering a chance for heightened emotional responses and intense fallout.

On the other hand, private betrayals can allow for a more in-depth exploration of the victim’s emotions and thought process.

In The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Hester Prynne’s betrayal of her husband is a public affair, leading to her public shaming and branding as an adulteress.

The public nature of this betrayal shapes Hester’s life in the Puritan society.

Tip 20: Betrayal of Self

Betrayal doesn’t always have to involve others.

Characters can betray themselves too—by going against their principles, ignoring their intuition, or not living up to their potential.

This internal conflict can be an interesting twist and adds depth to your character’s journey.

Betrayal of self can be a powerful way to highlight your character’s inner struggles and growth.

It can also lead to significant character development as they grapple with their choices and their consequences.

In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby , Gatsby betrays his humble origins in his pursuit of wealth and status.

This betrayal of self results in his ultimate downfall, serving as a critique of the American Dream.

Tip 21: Betrayal as a Theme

While betrayal works well as a plot device, it can also be used as an underlying theme in your narrative.

It can be a recurring element that continuously shapes the characters, their decisions, and the story’s outcome.

Using betrayal as a theme allows you to explore it from multiple angles and in varying degrees.

It can help illuminate human nature, relationships, society, and more.

In Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare, betrayal serves as a central theme.

From Brutus’s betrayal of Caesar to Antony’s betrayal of Brutus, the recurring acts of betrayal explore power dynamics, loyalty, and ambition.

Here is a good video about how to describe a betrayal in writing:

How to Describe Sudden Betrayal

Sudden betrayal can be one of the most shocking and impactful events in a narrative.

The key to describing it effectively is to build up a sense of normalcy or security before pulling the rug out from under your characters—and your readers.

First, ensure that the reader is invested in the relationship that’s about to be broken.

This could be a close friendship, a romantic relationship, or a trustworthy partnership. Make the reader believe in the strength and authenticity of this relationship.

Then, introduce subtle hints of what’s coming.

These can be slight changes in behavior, veiled words, or suspicious actions.

Make sure these hints are easy to overlook, adding to the surprise when the betrayal finally happens.

Finally, make the betrayal sudden and unequivocal.

Let the traitorous action be clear and impactful, leaving no room for doubt about what has happened.

The suddenness will amplify the sense of shock and betrayal.

Words to Describe Betrayal (30 Words)

Backstabbing
Double-cross
Faithlessness
Unfaithfulness
Inconstancy
Insidiousness
Two-facedness
Underhandedness
Deviousness
Skulduggery

Phrases to Describe Betrayal

A stab in the back
Broken trust
Brutal betrayal
Bitter deceit
Betrayed confidence
A double-cross to remember
False-hearted friend
Loyalty laid to waste
A Judas kiss
Treachery in the ranks
A dagger of deceit
The serpent’s bite
Twisting the knife of betrayal
Sold down the river
A wolf in sheep’s clothing
A snake in the grass
Betrayal in the shadows
Treason’s bitter taste
The traitor’s guise
The cut of betrayal
A knife of duplicity
Shattered loyalty
A traitorous whisper
An act of perfidy
The poison of disloyalty
A web of deceit
Betrayal’s icy sting
The breach of faith
The mask of betrayal
A veil of falsehood

How to Describe Betrayal (Full Descriptions)

I always find it helpful to see real examples.

Check out these full descriptions of betrayal in different genres.

Historical Fiction Betrayal

In the dimly lit tavern, Hiram felt a mix of nervousness and anticipation.

His loyalty to the king was unwavering, yet here he was, in the midst of conspirators plotting a coup.

When Sir Edmund, a man he’d known his whole life, stepped forward with the signed letter of treason, Hiram’s world crumbled. Edmund’s words, laced with betrayal, echoed around the room, “For the good of the realm, Hiram. For the future.”

His trusted mentor, now his traitor, had just plunged a dagger deep into the heart of his loyalty.

Fantasy Betrayal

In the enchanted forest, the young elf maiden Elara wept.

The locket, once warm with the magic of her beloved, was now cold and lifeless.

She remembered Xanthir’s charming smile, his promises of undying love, and how he’d left her, entranced by the allure of dark magic.

She had trusted him, had loved him, only for him to abandon her for power. Her heart was a frozen landscape, a silent testament to Xanthir’s icy betrayal.

Romance Betrayal

Lila, with a heavy heart, watched as her best friend kissed her boyfriend under the moonlight.

Tears welled up in her eyes, spilling over and tracing down her cheeks.

She clutched her chest, the pain was unbearable. It was like she had swallowed a stone, and it was slowly sinking, pulling her into a dark abyss of heartbreak.

Betrayed by the two people she loved most, her heartbreak was twofold, each throb a cruel reminder of their deceit.

Science Fiction Betrayal

Aboard the starship Atlas, Captain Jaxon watched the surveillance feed in disbelief.

His trusted lieutenant, Orin, was secretly communicating with the enemy species, the Zarquin.

Jaxon felt as though he was in a vacuum, the silence around him almost deafening.

The images flickered, revealing Orin handing over the Atlas’s defense codes, the very lifeline of their crew. A sense of cold betrayal spread through him like an alien virus, infecting every part of his being.

Mystery Betrayal

Inspector Evans stared at the evidence before him – the unmistakable handwriting, the tell-tale signature, the damning proof.

His deputy, Bennett, was the mole who had been leaking information to the crime syndicate.

He felt a sickening churn in his stomach as every shared case, every joke, every moment of trust twisted into a gnarled tree of betrayal.

As he reached for his phone to call for Bennett’s arrest, he felt the weight of the betrayal heavy in his heart.

Final Thoughts: How to Describe Betrayal in Writing

Every description of betrayal will be as unique and special as your story.

If you like this guide, you’ll probably like our other guides about describing cold, food, dancing, and car accidents.

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How to Describe Good Food in Writing (21 Tips + Examples)
How to Write a Dance Scene: 21 Best Tips + Examples
How to Describe a Car Accident in Writing (21 Best Tips)

7 Short Stories About Revenge for Secondary Students

Dorothy Hodges

Insults. Betrayal. Infidelity. What do we do when someone wrongs us? Wait for karma? Seek revenge?

Here are seven short stories about revenge from our digital literacy program which engage students with plot twists and characters they are likely to never forget. These texts also provide ample opportunities to practice key reading comprehension skills and analyze the author's craft, from foreshadowing to plot and character development.

Whether you’re new to CommonLit’s free digital literacy program or a longtime user of CommonLit’s online library, you’re sure to find a great short story to add to your ELA instruction. These rigorous texts will not only engage your students in deep analysis but also open thoughtful classroom discussions around revenge.

“ Master Jacob ” by Howard Pyle (6th Grade)

When members of his community try to fool Master Jacob so they can take his pig, Master Jacob turns the table on them with a series of tricks. As the tricks escalate, so do the consequences. Students will love the build of this story, as Master Jacob’s plan of revenge increases in its consequence.

After reading the short story, have students debate Discussion Question 5, “In this case, is his revenge justified? Why or why not? In which cases, if any, is revenge ever justified?”

“ One of These Days ” by Gabriel Garcia Márquez (8th Grade)

When a power-abusing mayor enters a dentist’s office to have his tooth pulled, the dentist views it as an opportunity to punish the mayor for how he has treated the town. Your students will wince (and maybe groan!) at the stark description of the encounter, as the dentist inflicts revenge by removing the mayor’s tooth without anesthesia.

Assessment Question 5 asks students to answer, “How do Aurlio Esovar’s actions contribute to the development of the story’s theme?” Guide student annotations throughout the text, keeping track of Escovar’s actions, to prepare students to answer this question with multiple pieces of evidence.

“ Ruthless ” by William DeMille (8th Grade)

To protect his precious bourbon from whoever stole it last year, Judson places two rat poison pellets in the bottle. His wife, Marcia, is not happy about this, but Judson is adamant that the unknown thief should be punished. When Marcia steps out of the house a few moments later, Judson’s fate takes a turn. He slips on an acorn, bumps his head, and awakes to find Alec, their neighbor, offering him a sip of the poisoned bourbon to revive himself.

Encourage students to check out the related media video The Psychology of Revenge . It’s a great resource to build background knowledge or extend their thinking further and support comprehension. After reading the text and watching the video, ask students to consider the following questions, “How are people negatively impacted by seeking revenge? How is this idea reflected in ‘Ruthless’? How do you think Judson could have shifted his focus from revenge to success?”

“ Lamb to the Slaughter ” by Roald Dahl (8th Grade)

When Patrick tells his wife, Mary, that he is leaving her, she seems to respond with her usual evening routine: going down to the basement to retrieve a leg of lamb to cook for dinner. Suddenly, she knocks Patrick on the head with the leg of lamb, killing him almost instantly in an act of cold revenge. Now she must try to cover up what she’s done. Will she get away with it?

Mary’s scheme to hide her crime is sure to keep students on the edge of their seats! Before reading the text, use the pre-reading activity available under the Related Media tab to build schema and hook students about whether or not individuals are always responsible for their actions.

“ The Cone ” by H.G. Wells (10th Grade)

The text is sure to engage your high schoolers! The story begins with a man and woman, quietly in love, having a discussion about another man. When an intruder enters the home, readers quickly learn that the “intruder” is the woman’s husband and the man inside the home is her lover. From this dramatic moment, tension continues to build as the husband kindly takes his wife’s lover on a tour of the iron works, getting closer and closer to the dangerous molten material. Students will be left breathless in the final moments of action and the ambiguous ending.

After reading this passage, ask students Discussion Question 3, “In the context of this story, was revenge justified? Is revenge ever justified? When? Cite evidence from this text, your own experience, and other literature, art, or history in your answer.”

“ The Cask of Amontillado ” by Edgar Allen Poe (11th Grade)

This classic Poe text begins with the main character, Montresor, explaining why he must seek revenge: his friend, Fortunato, insulted him. When Montresor encounters Fortunato at a party, he seizes his opportunity, taking Fortunato down into a cellar under the guise of tasting exquisite wine. When they reach the bottom, however, Montresor shackles Fortunato to the walls and builds an additional wall around him, trapping him there forever.

Afterwards, have students read the paired text “The Poison Tree” by William Blake, a poem about revenge. Ask students to consider, “Why do both speakers seek revenge? How have they handled their hatred for their enemies?”

“ Sweat ” by Zora Neale Hurston (12th Grade)

This story, set in early 1900’s Florida, chronicles the final interactions between husband and wife, Delia and Sykes. The final straw for Delia is when Sykes brings home a rattlesnake - Delia’s greatest fear - hiding it in a laundry bin for her to find. When faced with the rattlesnake, Delia escapes; however, when Sykes returns home, the snake is still loose. In a moment that could be considered karma, the snake bites Skyes. The story ends with Skyes calling for Delia’s help but receiving no response.

After reading, ask students Discussion Question 1, “Would you describe Delia’s actions at the end of the story as revenge? Why or why not? Do you think Delia should have forgiven Skyes in the end?”

Want more tense short stories to engage your students? Check out our text sets on Revenge & Betrayal or come to one of our webinars!

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Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” Essay

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Introduction

Betrayal in macbeth, conclusions, works cited.

Macbeth is a play by Shakespeare set during the Second War. One of the major themes in the play is betrayal. The betrayer, Macbeth betrays the King, friend and other subjects in the kingdom. It is a violent play, full of murders even as Macbeth does all he can to ensure he becomes the king and there is no opposition. The killings are merciless and finally, some of the Kingdom subjects decided to fight him. They were able to kill him and ensure the peace in the country is restored.

The story occurs in Scotland, beginning with Macbeth and Banquo’s defeat of the Norway and Ireland armies. They are generals in King Duncan’s administration. In Act 1 Scene 3, Macbeth and Banquo meet with witches who prophesy to them. They prophesy that Macbeth will be the Thane of Cawdor, which is a rank of Scottish royalty. They also prophesy he will be the King of England. For Banquo, he was told his sons will be kings however he himself would not be king. The men are skeptical of the witches’ prophesies. However when Macbeth is told he has just been chosen as the Thane of Cawdor, scenes of the possibilities of him as the King start to form in his mind. Macbeth is made the Thane of Cawdor as the former Thane had betrayed the King. The king, angered by the former thane’s betrayal has stripped him of his title and ordered that he be put to death. The Thane had betrayed the King by fighting on the Norwegians side during the battle. Macbeth starts thinking of the witches’ prophesies and betrayal starts to take root and grow in his heart.

He starts thinking of how to usurp the Kingship. When he tells his wife of the witches’ prophesy, the wife betrays the king in her heart and actions as she starts telling her husband to waste no time in killing the king. Lady Macbeth was the main driving force that greatly influences him to do everything possible to become the King (Learmond, 2007). She does not hesitate at all to think on the impact and consequences of Macbeth’s actions. She tells him to pretend to be the King’s friend then kill him. She tells “False face must hide what the false heart doth know” (Markham, 2011) The greed for power and his wife’s influence drives Macbeth to kill the king while he is asleep. He frames the chamberlains for the murder. Later, he pretends he is so angry and outraged by the chamberlain’s decision to kill the King that he kills them. The King’s sons, Malcom and Donalbein escape seeing the treason and betrayal, flee for their lives.

The friend and others

Macbeth, fearful of the witches prophesies that his friend’s son will become the king starts thinking of how to kill him and his sons thus betraying their friendship. The friend’s son in the future may become an obstacle to his goal of becoming a king and therefore he needs to be eliminated. This shows that Macbeth’s heart has never been loyal to the King and his friend (Spark Notes Editors, n,d). The intensity of betrayal is high as Macbeth goes on a blood path. The witches’ prophesy is suspect as it seems they had plans to oust the king. They betray Macbeth’s confidence since he believes the prophecies are given with good intention. Macbeth betrays his friend by sending a group of people to kill him and his son while on his way to a royal feast. The son, Fleance however is able to escape.

Macbeth betrays his fellow subject, Maduff. He seizes the castle and kills Macduff’s wife and children. Macbeth had visited the demons and spirits and received prophecies of how Macduff, a man who was greatly against the plan of Macbeth becoming the King.

Macbeth sees Macduff as a threat to the establishment of his rule so he kills the family. Macduff escapes the country. The former king’s son, Price Malcom has assembled an army at England. Macduff and Malcom combine forces and advance to attack Macbeth. The nobles in the country desire that Malcom wins the war. They are in shock in the way Macbeth has been murderous and dictatorial.When Macbeath and Malcom’s army meet in battle, Macbeath and his army are defeated. Macduff kills him and Malcom becomes the king.

Macbeth efforts to control the kingdom do not bear fruits. The ghost of Banquo visits him causing him to rave in the presence of his subjects incoherently. The wife tries to cover for him however there is already resistance against, Macbeth. The fruits of betrayal of the king and the friend are painful. Lady Macbeth commits suicide after having spells of sleepwalking. She actually says that she has blood on hands, knowing the number of people her husband and her have killed. Maduff, on seeing the King’s body is not convinced of Macbeth’s innocence and starts to observe vim quietly.

The story seeks to shows the effects of greed for power and influence. It can cause devastation in a kingdom, as subjects seek to be rulers. Treason and betrayal does not and usually does not pay off for any person (Dollack, 2009). That is the teaching the author conveys.

Dollack, Amanda.”Literary Analysis: Dominant themes in Shakespeare’s Macbeth”. Helium , 2009. Web.

Learmond, Wayne. “Macbeth”. Associated Content , 2009. Web.

Markham, Samantha. ”Key Quotations from Macbeth”. Suite101 , 2011. Web.

Spark Notes Editors (n.d.) “Macbeth” . Spark Notes.

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IvyPanda. (2022, May 6). Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”. https://ivypanda.com/essays/betrayal-in-shakespeares-macbeth/

"Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”." IvyPanda , 6 May 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/betrayal-in-shakespeares-macbeth/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”'. 6 May.

IvyPanda . 2022. "Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”." May 6, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/betrayal-in-shakespeares-macbeth/.

1. IvyPanda . "Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”." May 6, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/betrayal-in-shakespeares-macbeth/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”." May 6, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/betrayal-in-shakespeares-macbeth/.

7 Acts of Betrayal in Literature

Reading Lists

With every promise or secret, there is the potential for treachery.

Literature is a place where we can grapple with the unsavory habits of humanity and think through the causes and effects of how and why people act the way they do. I am interested in—and haunted by—the capacity of people to betray the ones they love. My book, Judas Goat , looks at betrayal from a variety of angles, on an intimate scale, inspired by lived and imagined experiences growing up in the Deep South, where certain Biblical figures and ideas, threats of gendered violence, and complicated family dynamics abound. The eponymous Judas goat is an animal trained to lead sheep to slaughter, while its own life is spared, and there is a degree to which the characters who speak throughout Judas Goat are like Judas goats themselves, seducing the reader forward through a series of harrowing rooms.

There are the more obvious forms of betrayal—the extramarital affair, the divulgence of another person’s secret—and then there are others: the cowardice that keeps a boy from intervening while his friend is attacked, a country that governs counter to its creed, the betrayal of children by parental figures through neglect. The frightening fact is that wherever there exists a promise, explicit or implied, there is the potential for a betrayal.

Like Judas Goat , many of the titles gathered below contend with the ugly facts of betrayal as a way to investigate, ultimately, what it means to be human, and what it means to love.

The Neapolitan Quartet by Elena Ferrante, translated by Ann Goldstein

Penned by Elena Ferrante in Italian and translated into English by Ann Goldstein, this four-part fiction series recounts a complicated friendship between two women, Elena and Lila, in 1950s Naples. Spanning early childhood to late adulthood, the Neapolitan quartet teases out the power dynamics and competitions that suffuse and surround the core friendship. Betrayals, large and small, abound and beget others in this exquisite, absorbing super-novel.

The Sellout by Paul Beatty

In the frame story of this Booker Prize–winning novel, an African American man named Bonbon is standing trial for his attempt to restore slavery and segregation to the fictional town of Dickens, California, and the rest of the novel recounts how he got in this bizarre situation. Thought-provoking, darkly comic, and compulsively readable, the betrayals in this book are many and multilayered: the betrayal of a son by his father in the name of sociological experimentation and the betrayal of Black people by the United States, historically and today, just to name two.

Dept of Speculation by Jenny Offill

The most overt betrayal at the heart of this novel regards a partner’s affair, but this book is also about the ways we betray parts of ourselves in order to honor others. The main character in Dept of Speculation is a new mother and former science magazine fact-checker in Brooklyn, and the prose style—short, leaping vignettes—allows the story to accumulate in an impressionistic way, even as it unfurls in linear time. At times startlingly funny, often achingly poignant, this novel enacts the psychologically complex interiority of the betrayed.

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

In this novel, the protagonist, Amir, feels so much guilt over betraying his childhood friend Hassan that he returns to Kabul during the rise of the Taliban to try and save Hassan’s orphaned son. I haven’t read this book in many years, but the pivotal, plot-instigating betrayal, which happens early on in the novel, has stuck with me in searing detail. A dramatic, heart-wrenching, and multigenerational story of betrayal and atonement.

Bastard Out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison

This novel depicts the childhood and early adolescence of Ruth Anne Boatwright, a fatherless girl in rural South Carolina, in the wake of her mother’s marriage to a volatile, increasingly abusive man. Allison’s prose brings to intense (at times terrifying and painful) life the difficulties of being a child at the mercy of adults and the ways people fail each other. Because the book grapples in a very real way with childhood sexual abuse and includes some racial slurs, readers should proceed, if they choose to do so, with care.

Stag’s Leap by Sharon Olds

This poetry collection, written in the wake of a husband’s affair and subsequent divorce, won the Pulitzer Prize in 2013. While these poems do not flinch away from the deep grief the speaker feels over her ex’s betrayal, what radiates from this book, more than anything, is her love. By elegizing her thirty-year marriage, the speaker creates a stunning ode to it, and it’s this tender, vividly evoked devotion that just might make you ugly cry as you read.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

The Secret History is what made “dark academia” a thing. Eerie and intelligent, this New England campus novel centers around a small group of socially isolated classics students and reflects on how and why they came to commit the ultimate betrayal: murder. Obsessed with intersections of beauty and terror, The Secret History functions in some ways like a murder mystery, only in reverse.

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Home / Essay Samples / Life / Emotion / Betrayal

Betrayal Essay Examples

Analysis of macbeth: betrayal in shakespeare's play.

Betrayal: the disloyal action that results in the ultimate feeling of hurt. For there to be betrayal, there must be trust; the breaking of trust is the ultimate way of betrayal. It spurs upon the influence of others and is provoked by the ambitious mind....

Betrayal in William Shakespeare’s Plays and Nowadays

William Shakespeare embeds betrayal into most of his plays. Betrayal is a dramatic device that can lead to many horrible tragedies. Betrayal is one of the worse things a young teenager can experience. Loyalty and trust can be majorly torn upon betrayal. It can toy...

The Theme of Betrayal in William Shakespeare's Hamlet

William Shakespeare is one of the most influential writers of his time. His ability to make a connection to the real world through the themes of his plays, is what makes him a master of literature. Throughout many of William Shakespeare's plays there is a...

Review of the Book Betrayal of Faith by Mark M. Bello

Betrayal of Faith (Zachary Blake Legal Thriller Book 1) by Mark M. Bello is a crime/thriller book about justice, redemption and a mother’s love for her sons. This book is the first in a series about Zachary Blake, a struggling attorney trying to find his...

The Result of Betrayal in Lamb to the Slaughter by Roald Dahl

Betrayal is the act of disloyalty from a person to another, breaking their relation and replacing it with hatred. It can begin from jealousy, anger, or frustration which can lead to several consequences. In the short story 'Lamb to the Slaughter' written by Roald Dahl,...

Loyalty and Betrayal in a View from the Bridge by Arthur Miller

The 1940’s Red Hood an Italian of Italian immigrants who follow a common code of justice of silence. Eddie Carbone, a loving husband and uncle who gets swept by his feelings for his niece and betrays the loyalty of his whole community, family and friends...

Depiction of Betrayal and Conflict in Literature and Films

Betrayal is no less than a sin. Ranging from treachery to betraying a friend, the act is unacceptable as it violates moral values of the person itself and people around him/her. At some point in life, our vulnerable natures go through circumstances that no one...

Government Betrayal in the Forty Acres by Dwayne Alexander Smith

After one of the most shameful time periods in America’s history, slavery was officially abolished in 1865, with the 13th Amendment. During the reconstruction period, former slaves received the promise of “40 acres and a mule,” which would allow them to grasp a foothold in...

Betrayal in Khaled Hosseini’s the Kite Runner

Khaled Hosseini had an abnormal childhood. He grew up in Afghanistan in the pre-soviet war era. Both of his parents where college educated. His father was a diplomat for the Foreign ministry and his mother a high school history teacher at an all-girls Highschool. In...

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