Sacrifice and Redemption

The theme of characters sacrificing for others and finding redemption.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Christine's Sacrifice

Christine's Sacrifice The Choice to Save Christine agrees to marry Erik to save Raoul and the audience. She is willing to give up her own happiness for others. The Kiss of Redemption Her kiss redeems Erik. It is a sacrifice of her own revulsion. She gives him the compassion he has never received. The Reward Christine's sacrifice is rewarded with freedom. She and Raoul are allowed to go. Her selflessness is a model of virtue.

Erik's Redemption

Erik's Redemption The Release Erik lets Christine go. He gives up his obsession. This is his first selfless act. The Death of Love Erik dies of a broken heart. His death is a sacrifice for love. He chooses to die rather than harm Christine. The Forgiveness The Persian and Christine forgive Erik. The narrator buries him with respect. His redemption is complete. He is no longer a monster, but a tragic figure.

the night of the abduction

the final moments of his life