Another look at who's morally responsible

What if the event that happened to Clara and Wieland’s father set Wieland up for what happens to him? This incredible event happens to their father, supernatural in appearance, and there is no explanation (for them or the reader). What’s to be made of it? But what if not knowing exactly what happened to their father ate at Wieland’s mind, a mind whose very nature was already leaning towards a religious fanatic like that of his father’s. Here Clara describes Wieland’s character. “In his studies, he pursued an austerer and more arduous path. [...] There was an obvious resemblance between him and my father... Their characters were similar...” (28) That being said, when Carwin entered into this family, it’s like stepping onto a minefield.

As for Carwin, his whole character would suggest he is manipulative. True, as discussed in class, his actions were never malicious, and he explains to Clara that everything he was involved with was merely circumstance. This defense can also be used against him, because what else have his explanations been but excuses to save himself? So Carwin with his ability manipulates Wieland and triggers his perhaps already borderline mental state.

On his way to Clara’s house, Wieland describes himself as being desperate for some direct contact with his god. “Oh that I might be admitted to thy presence! That mine were the supreme delight of knowing thy will, and of performing it!-the blissful privilege of direct communication with thee, and of listening to the audible enunciation of thy pleasure!” (160) Wieland was in a position to be deceived (if that is what happened) or delusional, as a result of his piousness. After he kills his wife, he says: “I gazed upon [Catherine’s body] with delight. Such was the elation of my thoughts, that I even broke into to laughter. I clapped my hands and exclaimed, ‘It is done! My sacred duty is fulfilled! To that I have sacrificed, O my God! Thy last and best gift, my wife!” (166) His excitement is merely that of a devout follower of God. He believed he followed God’s orders thoroughly and could then be considered truly faithful. Carwin’s previous actions with the family pushed Wieland to the edge, suggesting then that Carwin could be held morally responsible (for having read Clara’s writing and possibly have gained foresight as to Wieland’s character). However given Wieland’s susceptibility this may have happened without Carwin’s intervention.