The Conflict Between Duty and Morality

Paul and the other guards struggle with their roles as executioners, especially after witnessing Coffey's miracles and learning of his innocence.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Paul's Doubts Begin

A Crisis of Conscience The Healing Paul is cured of his infection. He knows Coffey has a divine gift. How can he execute such a man? The System's Demands Paul is a cog in the machine. If he refuses to do his job, he will be fired and replaced. The execution will happen anyway. The First Step Paul begins to investigate Coffey's case, hoping to find a way to stop the execution. His duty conflicts with his growing belief in Coffey's innocence.

The Decision to Take Coffey to Melinda

Crossing the Line The Plan Paul proposes taking Coffey to heal Melinda. It is illegal and dangerous. The other guards agree, but they are afraid. The Risk If caught, they will go to prison. But Paul feels he must balance the scales after Delacroix's botched execution. The Act of Atonement Paul sees the night journey as a way to atone for his role in the system. It is a moral choice over duty.

The Execution of Coffey

The Final Betrayal Doing the Job Despite knowing Coffey is innocent, Paul must participate in the execution. He gives the order to roll on two. The Aftermath Paul is devastated. He feels like a murderer. The conflict between duty and morality is never resolved. The Long Shadow Paul carries the guilt for the rest of his life. He writes his story to try to understand.

After Coffey heals Paul, mid-October 1932

Day after Delacroix's execution, October 25, 1932

Night of November 20, 1932