Guilt and Responsibility

The theme of personal guilt and the burden of responsibility for one's actions.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Brody's Guilt

The Weight of Command The Cover-Up Brody's decision to suppress the first attack haunts him. He feels responsible for the subsequent deaths. Mrs. Kintner's Accusation Her words cut deep. Brody internalizes the blame. Atonement Brody risks his life to kill the shark, partly to atone for his failure. He seeks redemption.

Ellen's Guilt

A Different Kind of Guilt The Affair Ellen feels guilty for betraying Brody. She realizes her actions were selfish. Hooper's Death She grieves but also feels relief. The affair is over. She must live with her choices. Reconciliation Ellen works to rebuild her marriage. She accepts responsibility for her actions.

Throughout the story

After the affair