Revenge-PLL

The topic of revenge is a very interesting topic. It seems even in today's literature, TV shows, and movies to be a very popular story line. However, what is revenge? According to the online dictionary, revenge can be defined as exact punishment or expiation for a wrong on behalf of, especially in a resentful, vindictive spirit. The topic of revenge can be found relevant in the popular, hit television show, “Pretty Little Liars” airing on ABC Family. The show is based off of a popular book series, but brought to life in the hit show.

“Pretty Little Liars” can be described as creepy, mysterious, and full of revenge. I know when I watch it; I’m hooked in the blink of an eye! The show takes a look into the lives of four young girls, Aria, Spencer, Emily, and Hanna after their friend Allison was mysteriously killed. How can revenge be present here? Well, the four young girls seek a bit of revenge on whoever killed Allison. The four girls are taunted and tortured by a mysterious “A”, someone who is posing to be Allison and lives on the misery and misfortune of the four girls. Not only are the girls seeking revenge on “A”, but “A” is also seeking revenge on the girls.

The common question I ask myself while watching the hit show is, why does “A” want revenge on the four girls? What makes “A” so mad that they want to take the girls down. After watching the show since it has been aired, the puzzle pieces have started to come together. “A” wants revenge on the girls because the original Allison was a cold-hearted, mean, conniving girl who survived off the misery of other people, including her friends. It’s almost as if you can sense the revenge and betrayal.

How can “Pretty Little Liars” even compare to Hamlet? Hamlet after finding out his uncle was responsible for the death of his father, wants to avenge his father’s death. Hamlet wants to kill his uncle, therefore getting his revenge. In both “Pretty Little Liars” and Hamlet, a death is being avenged. Revenge is wanted in both cases. However in Hamlet, I feel like the revenge plot is stronger. Why? Well, because Hamlet wants someone to die in order to avenge his father and that someone happens to be his uncle. In PLL there is definitely a strong sense of revenge, but not as strong as in Hamlet, the girls may want someone in jail, but the concept of death is not relevant to the way that the girls want to seek revenge on Allison’s killer.

Revenge is still often used today, but in a weaker sense. Back in the time Hamlet, was written, revenge had a stronger meaning. Modern revenge has a completely different meaning in today’s time, rather than back in that time period. When plotting revenge today, it seems like death is often times a last resort. In fact, revenge looks rather childish and is expressed through simpler meaning, such as pranks and embarrassment. Rarely death is used. However, revenge is still a popular topic in today’s literature, movies, and television shows nonetheless.

You've never seen "Pretty Little Liars" check it out! Here's some links to the thrilling show!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWNDxzC8gks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSyYPM68Oo0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7e-p21_7CI