Themes of Justice
The play Justice shows the harsh truth of the legal system. John Galsworthy writes this play to expose the failure of law. He wants people to see the pain of those who suffer under cold rules. He shows how the system punishes without care. He shows how justice can become cruel. The play tells the story of a clerk named Falder. He makes a mistake. He wants to save a woman from a cruel husband. He changes a cheque. He wants to help. But the law gives him no mercy.
One major theme in the play is the conflict between law and justice. The play shows that law does not always bring justice. The judge follows rules. The lawyers follow orders. The system works with facts. It does not feel pain. It does not show kindness. Falder does not steal for gain. He does not act with greed. He acts with fear. He wants to save a life. But the law sees only guilt. The play shows that law must also see the heart.
Another theme in the play is the cruelty of punishment. Falder goes to prison. He suffers behind bars. He loses hope. He loses peace. The prison does not help him. It breaks his spirit. It kills his future. The play shows that punishment must not destroy. It must guide. It must help. It must heal. Galsworthy shows that a system without mercy fails the people.
A third theme in the play is the failure of society. Falder wants a new life. He wants to live with truth. But society does not forgive. It sees his past. It turns him away. He tries to work. He tries to live. But people call him a thief. They give him no chance. They leave him alone. The play shows that people must support change. It shows that society must open doors.
The play also shows the theme of human dignity. Falder is weak. He makes a mistake. But he wants to live with honor. He wants to be free. He wants respect. The system does not treat him as a person. It treats him as a case. It calls him a number. The play shows that every person needs respect. It shows that people must feel seen. It shows that dignity must guide justice.
Another theme in the play is the need for reform. Galsworthy does not attack all law. He does not reject all order. But he wants change. He wants justice with heart. He wants rules with reason. He wants courts with care. The play calls for new ways. It calls for better laws. It calls for mercy. It calls for balance.
In the end, Justice gives a voice to the silent. The play shows that justice without kindness becomes pain. It shows that punishment without purpose becomes cruelty. It shows that society must forgive. It shows that reform must begin with truth. John Galsworthy gives a message of hope. He wants people to see the truth. He wants people to act with care. He wants justice that heals.