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Read below our study guide on Of Revenge by Francis Bacon summary and analysis.

Of Revenge by Francis Bacon Summary

Of Revenge by Francis Bacon is a short but meaningful essay that carries the author personal views about the great upsurge of nowadays society that is “revenge”. Bacon starts the essay by calling revenge as animalistic behavior by using the words “wild justice” for it. By such contrast, he describes the whole picture of the animal and human life. The more one’s nature turns toward for taking revenge, the more he is taking the law into his hands. If one commits a crime or does some harm to anybody, he/she is offending and violating the law but when the victim counterattacks, it make the law of no use. The law is useless when a person tries to take revenge himself. Undoubtedly by taking revenge, the wrongdoer and the counter-attacker are equal and at the same level. There is no difference between both, apparently. Bacon highlights the point that revenge is totally against the law. By ignoring or forgiving the wrong done to one by other makes a person superior to other as it is the quality of kings and prince to forgive others. By forbearing others, one makes a respectable place in the society.

By quoting Salomon, a wisest Jewish philosopher, Bacon designates the quality of wise men that a secret of their glory is they always ignore the wrongs from others. To him, wise men don’t think about past. For what is done, is gone that cannot be changed. But the wise men focus on the present and they learn through their previous experiences and apply them in the present. Why should one care about the past as they have much to do about present and future? Forgive, forget, and move on.

Bacon interestingly illustrates that why will a person do wrong to someone? What could be possible reasons behind? Is he/she doing wrong for the sake of wrong? If so, then why? The answer is given by bacon himself. One doesn’t do wrong with others for the sake of wrongs but to gain and acquire himself certain profit ( that could me of money or something else), or a particular pleasure (just like a sadist enjoys sufferings of others), or it might be to avail some respect and honor, or could be anything like that. Bacon, then, argues that why should I become mad at a person who loves himself more than me? This is then not a well-to-do workout to do. And if a person does wrong because it is his nature then these people are like “thorn” and “briar” (bushes) which can only puncture and cut. So, let them do, don’t complain.

Bacon, moreover, points out that if one makes himself engross in revenge that has no legal remedy, “the most tolerable sort of revenge”, then the one looking to avenge should make sure that there is no rule or law to rebuke him. Bacon suggested that the person taking revenge should make his enemies informed as it might make the opposition party repent. It is more delightful to make one repent than to hurt. But if you take revenge silently by not provoking them, you will be a coward which is like an arrow that could hit anyone in the dark.

Bacon extends his argument about the wrongs that cannot be pardoned. These wrongs usually come from our beloved friend, as one can forgive the enemy form whom we can expect such wrongs but these sort of friend are like snakes who stabs at your back and doesn’t give you a moment to understand what they have done to you. The author quoted the Cosmos, the Duke of Florence that we have read that we are commanded to forgive our enemies, but we have never read that we are commanded to forgive our friends. But still, bacon says, we should not be so much inclined toward avenging them. As we are satisfied to take all good deeds from God but why are we not happy to take evil from him, too? So, we should forgive even our friends and consider them an evil from the God.

A person who is always in sickness to take revenge and searching for a good moment to take will keep his wound evergreen and will never let them cure. In such condition, the only loss is to the sufferer which would otherwise heal and move on and focusing more on his present and future than to remain buried in his past.

Bacon, lastly, ends the essay by arguing that public revenge, on the most past for bad leader or rules is fortunate. He gives examples of the public death of Caesar, Partinax (a Roman emperor), and Henry the Third of France. In public act of revenge, there is a huge lesson for the public and rest of people as it set an example for other while the private revenge, on the other hand, makes a person, who nourishes evil desires for others, to live a life of witches. Such life is full of rascal so they end, unfortunately.

Of Revenge by Francis Bacon Literary Analysis

In the essay, of Revenge, Bacon presents the extremely reasonable argument contrary to the private revenge and recognizes “public revenge on the most part is fortunate”. He calls revenge a “wild justice”. Such contrast is made by him to show the animalistic nature of revenge. It is characteristic of an animal to avenge not of humans as they are entitled to forgive and show compassion to fellow beings. Bacon’s essays are characterized as brief but highly comprehensible. Just as by a single statement of wild justice, he presents the whole picture of human and animal life.

Moreover, Bacon argues that the first wrong is overseen by law, but avenging it is out of the law. To avenge is a distortion of the law.

This essay appeals to one’s wisdom of ethical supremacy when the author points out that the wise man is the one who ignores the wrongs of other done to him as he has much more to do in present and future rather than considering his past matters. As wrongs in the past cannot be changed because they are irrevocable, one should move on.

Bacon explains a logical argument for why should one look for to harm others? As one doesn’t go wrong for the wrong sake. To him, one might get some profit by harming others, or some pleasure like a sadist or to achieve some honor. If these could be the reasons to do wrong with others then one should not avenge them as you cannot hate someone because they love themselves more than you. Further, if someone is doing wrong because of their ill-nature then they are just like “thorns and briars that can only cut and scratch”. Forgive them, and move on.

By taking revenge, Bacon argues, one takes the law into his hands. Law becomes useless if one tries to take revenge. But such type of revenge is bearable which has no lawful remedy. One should make sure, Bacon warns, that there is then no law to punish. Along with this, one should make the opposition informed before avenging them. This might make them sorry which is more worth than harming them.

We can forgive the wrongs done by enemies because we expect them to do so, but what about the wrongs that are done to us by our beloved friend, are such wrongs forgivable? Bacon seems to change his opinion against taking revenge by quoting Cosmus, the Duke of Florence, that we are commanded to forgive enemies but we are never commanded to forgive friends. But immediately after this he quotes Job and stands upon his argument that ‘we are satisfied and happy to take all goods from God than why we are not happy to take all evil’? Such friends should be considered as evil from God and shouldn’t be avenged.

Bacon is totally against private revenge but suggests that public act of revenge are for the most part fortunate as it set an example for all. On the other hand, private revenge is unfortunate. The person who takes revenge lives a life of witches and his wound never heals.

Of Revenge Main Themes

Following are the main theme of the essay Of Revenge.

Revenge: A Wild Justice:

“Revenge is a kind of wild justice”, Bacon argues. Wild justice symbolizes animalistic behavior. Animals don’t have any rules and regulation nor do they have any law to maintain order in their society. So they are inclined towards taking revenge. While, on the other hand, human society has a law to regulate human behavior. They shouldn’t be inclined towards avenging others like animals. By doing so they are taking the law into hands and in such cases the law is useless.

Private Revenge is Useless:

Private revenge is unfortunate and useless as by avenging others one takes the law into his hands. One should consult law to take revenge. The revenge for that wrongs is tolerable and fortunate which has no lawful remedy. If there is law then it’s unfortunate. The one who is always in search of the moment to take revenge is the most unfortunate person as his wound are evergreen and lives a life of witches.

Forgive, Forget, and Move on:

Bacon’s argument about revenge highly appeals to one moral and ethical sense of supremacy. According to him, the wise man is the one who forgives others and concentrates on his present and future than on past. Since the wrongs done in past is gone and irrevocable so, it is useless to live in past. Just forgive, forget, and move on.

Public Revenge is Fortunate:

Bacon argues that public act of revenge on the most part are fortunate as they set examples for others. Bad leaders should be punished publically and in the worst way so that other learns a lesson from it and avoid doing such acts.

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Sir Francis Bacon – Essay: Of Revenge – Summary & Analysis

Sir Francis Bacon was a statesman, essayist, philosopher and science enthusiast belonging to 16 th century. His essays are known to deal with human emotions in the most intellectual way possible. “Of Revenge” is one of his renowned essays in a didactic tone dealing with revenge, morals and different types of vengeance.

Francis Bacon – Of Revenge – Summary

Revenge is unlawful and more it persists, the more need there is to take care of the problem. People seeking it are taking law into their own hands. A man fulfilling his vengeful thoughts cannot surpass his enemy either in thoughts or deeds. Those who are able to pardon their enemies are nobler than those who take revenge.

The past cannot be revoked and wise men realize that it is the present that matters the most. No man does felonious deeds unless there is something of interest involved and Bacon finds no fault in those enticed to those deeds. Further, those who are capable only of wrong doings cannot do other things are should be considered as thorns or briars.

Bacon believes that of revenge the best sort is the one that cannot come under the law. One can seek vengeance if there is no law to punish the crime a man has done.

Vengeance is more about taking delight in the repenting words of the enemy rather than seeing him/her suffer through violence.   At the same time, a man who keeps brooding about revenge keeps his own wounds fresh ; which, otherwise would have healed if not for those thoughts.

Of revenge the most fortunate are those done in public as proved in the case of Julius Caesar, Pertinax and Henry the Third of France. Vengeance in private cannot have the same fortune.

Francis Bacon – Of Revenge – Analysis

The essay talks about wild justice, morality, irrevocable past, justification of revenge, types of vengeance, psychology of it and what great men of the past opined about it.

In the essay, Bacon speaks of four kinds of revenge namely unlawful vengeance, revenge existing above the law, public and private vengeance. First one is discussed in the section wild justice. The second one, interestingly, Bacon suggests that there is revenge that one can take if there are no laws to take action against the wrongful deed of an enemy. This is not going against the law and the person is acting to serve justice.

Public revenge can uplift a nation or cause civil rebellion as this often is associated with assassinations or taking vengeance against wrongful rulers who misuse powers to form a tyrannical government. Julius Caesar was stabbed by senators led by Brutus, Pertinax killed by a guard and Henry the Third of France assassinated by Jacques Clement are all examples in history portraying public revenge as a necessary evil.

On the other hand, private revenge can lead to a lot of suspicions and is often restricted to the burning rage of one individual against another.

Wild Justice

Sir Francis Bacon always striven for a civilized world with science at its center; therefore, he emphasizes more on laws than working as outlaws or vigilantes seeking justice where the law does not permit. It is a moral question whether to harm another and he quotes wise Solomon explaining that people who can get past their vengeful thoughts are noble and are above their enemy.  Despite human nature, there is nothing one could do to bring the past or right a wrongful event; it is only wise to let go of the past injuries and carry on with life.

Bacon believes (wrongfully) that those who want vengeance would like to see the enemy repent rather bleed. However, most harm the enemy to watch them suffer and cruelty to satisfy the rage is present.

There is a contradiction about betraying friends and Bacon quotes Cosmus, the Duke of Florence and the Biblical figure Job. Cosmus reiterates that friends who betray should not be pardoned and should be punished. Whereas, Job is inclined towards forgiving friends as a person should accept the negativity around friends if he/she has made friends with someone willingly and had favours. Here, Bacon touches the two minds and the opinion is left to the reader about being what kind of friend, if in case, a betrayal arises.

Of Revenge carefully explains the probabilities of vengeance, predicament of a person before and after, wise and foolish decisions one can take and the fact that there is nothing one can do to bring back a person or an event that has become a mere memory of the past. Sir Francis Bacon being a man of science expects humans to step out of their barbaric nature and proceed lawfully to bring justice.

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Of Revenge by Sir Francis Bacon | Summary and Critical Analysis

“Of Revenge” as the name suggests is about a revengeful person, who thinks to take revenge from an enemy. Sir Francis Bacon, in a didactic tone, talks about merits and demerits of revenge. The essay is full of wisdom but it is of a strange kind. He gives examples from the past, quotes opinions of philosophers and uses allusions to clear his point of view. This essay although has morality yet it is limited to worldly wisdom. He also uses similes , metaphors , and illustrations so that his readers can better understand his message. He puts the pros and cons of taking revenge. Sir Francis Bacon explains some situations, in which revenge is allowed. He also elucidates why people harm others. Let us see what else he has to say to his readers.

Table of Contents

Revenge and its Cons: Views of Sir Francis Bacon:

He starts his essay while saying, “Revenge is a kind of wild justice”. He believes that revenge comes in the category of justice but it is certainly rough kind of justice. Firstly, Sir Francis Bacon tries to convince every revengeful person not to take revenge but if someone has decided to take it then he should adopt a legal method. In his eyes, breaking the law is not a rational act. Moreover, a person should do his best to forget the bad deeds of his enemy; by doing so, he will get two benefits; one of them is moral superiority. Forgiveness makes a person noble. He quotes the wise words of Solomon, who said, “It is the glory of a man to pass by an offence.” Secondly, a loss is loss forever. Revenge cannot recover a loss.

Moreover, wise men do not think about past; they concentrate on the present and future. Sir Francis Bacon considers a person unwise if he remembers worst days of the past to take revenge. Moreover, it is a fruitless effort.

Why People Harm Others?

There are certain reasons due to which people harm others; “profit”, “pleasure”, “honour”, “or the like”. Some people harm others to make financial gain; some do it to pleasure themselves or their near and dear ones; whereas some do it to get the honour. All these acts show the selfishness of a person. If a person is selfish then not everyone should follow him. Sir Francis Bacon here suggests that a revengeful person should ignore him. He does not need to keep a selfish person in his mind for the whole life as by doing so, he just wastes his time. There is also another reason due to which people harm others; “ill-nature”. If a person is of ill-nature, then it is better to ignore him. Bacon calls him “thorn or briar, which [only] prick[s] and scratch[s]”. He cannot damage a person at the largest level; therefore, there is no need to think about an ill-natured person.

In Which Situation, a Person Can Take Revenge?

There is a situation when a person can take revenge from his enemy. Where the law does not provide any remedy a person can take revenge. However, precautions should be kept in mind. Firstly, he should keep in mind that law does not go against him. Otherwise, he will still be at disadvantage as compared to his enemy. Moreover, identity should be revealed while doing any harm to an enemy. The true meaning of revenge lies in seeing the miserable condition of the victim. Revenge completes only in case the enemy repents on his wrongdoings. He should know that why harm is being done to him; and it is possible only if the revengeful person has revealed his identity to his enemy. A person who does not reveal his identity while taking revenge is a coward in the eyes of Sir Francis Bacon.

Anyone Is Pardonable but Not friends:

Francis Bacon has deeply studied “Cosmus, Duke of Florence” and “Job”. He quotes their words. Dosimo de Medici (Cosmus) has said that anyone is forgivable but a traitorous friend. It is unwise to pardon treacherous and unfaithful friends. Job, on the other hand, thinks the opposite. He has said that if a person obtains benefits from friends then he should forgive them for their misconducts. Bacon supports Job in this regard while saying that “But yet the spirit of Job was in a better tune”. Here too, readers can witness the worldly wisdom of Sir Francis Bacon. If a person gets favours from his friends then it is necessary for him to ignore the disloyalty of his friends.

Why Revenge is Harmful?

First of all, it wastes time. Secondly, it keeps vengeful person’s wounds fresh. Thirdly, it mentally tortures him as he always thinks of doing harm to his enemy; therefore, he lives a miserable life. Bacon calls this kind of life “the life of witches”. However, there are some revenges, which are necessary to be taken. Sir Francis Bacon named them “public revenge s”. He supports his assertions by referring a “public revenge” from Roman history. Julius Caesar was assassinated for the murder of “Pertinax, and “Henry III of France”. Another kind of revenge is “private revenges”. “Public revenges are for the most part fortunate….. But in private revenges it is not”.

The conclusion of “Of Revenge” By Sir Francis Bacon:

Sir Francis Bacon highly criticizes a revengeful person. He suggests that he should either forget his past or ignore his enemy. Otherwise, he is going to live a miserable life. Nevertheless, we see Bacon’s worldly approach. The essay is moral in nature but nowhere in the essay is morality related to spirituality. This essay is only thoughtful from worldly perspectives rather than religious perspectives. Bacon adds relevant quotations of ancient philosophers and makes his essay rich. The advice of not taking revenge, which Sir Francis Bacon gives to his readers, is not new, but his arguments and references makes it fresh. Indeed, this essay is worth reading especially it is dedicated to those persons, who are living an unhappy life while having revenge in their minds.

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Of Revenge Summary & Analysis

Francis Bacon has examined the idea of retaliation, the nature of revenge, and the consequences of revenge on the human psyche in his essay, “Of Revenge.”

Sir Francis Bacon (1561–1626), was an English philosopher, statesman, author, and pioneering figure of the Scientific Revolution.

Of Revenge | Summary

Francis Bacon begins by highlighting the innate desire for retaliation in humans. In other terms, it refers to getting some sort of gratification from punishing those that offend us, do us wrong, or make us feel bad. This reveals our primal animal nature and must be restricted and discouraged through legal and regulatory means. The first offense—committing a crime or inflicting harm—should be dealt with lawfully. He maintains that the goal of every human being should be to discuss their existence and reason for existing. As a result, choosing to forgive and be kind rather than seeking retribution is better. He contends that while seeking revenge could result in fairness and momentary gratification, doing the right thing and giving people a second chance promotes greater human accomplishment and harmony. Forgiveness requires character strength, wisdom, and bravery which are uncommon in people of average intelligence. He defends the position of a royal regent, who has the authority to pardon but is exempt from the suffering, emotional investment, and loss that regular people must endure. As a result, the regent is more likely to be able to forgive than the average individual. Bacon emphasizes the superiority of adopting the high moral ground and demonstrating compassion and forgiveness by quoting King Solomon from the Bible. He claims that it is impossible to go forward and claim a brighter future if a person harbors retaliatory feelings and becomes trapped in the vicious cycle of past harm and suffering. The past cannot be erased or altered. But with deliberate work and generous hearts, the present and the future can be improved. A sensible man always considers the chances that lie ahead rather than the mistakes made in the past. He learns from his failures and uses those lessons to improve himself in the future. There are countless reasons why a person makes a mistake or commits a crime, including personal gain, bad guidance, unrestrained desire, etc. According to Bacon, one should feel sorry for the individual who is a prisoner to his own needs, drives, and instincts rather than being concerned about someone else who wants to seize some benefit and pleasure for himself.

These people should be spared since they are imprisoned by their instincts and live only to inflict harm, much like a thorny bush. For them, the humiliation and punishment in this cage are plenty. We can see that Bacon has agreed to some terms with those seeking retribution. Retribution can be permitted, according to him, when a crime is committed that cannot be rectified by the judicial system and the offender is likely to go unpunished. However, the act of revenge’ itself must be extra-legal for judicial systems to hold the perpetrator accountable. Additionally, he asserts that it is occasionally permissible to inform the initial offender that he is being singled out and dishonored by his victim.

This can act as a comfort to the victim and a deterrent to the offender so they won’t do the same crime again. It might even cause him to feel some remorse. On the other hand, if the offender is genuinely nasty and heartless, he might never acknowledge his guilt and continue to exist in the mindless world of his crime. Bacon continues by saying that it is even more reprehensible and inexcusable when one is injured by a friend as an illustration of justified retaliation. He uses the Duke of Florence as an example, who forgave his adversaries but never pardoned his evil-doing companions. He does, however, use Prophet Job from the Bible as an example, who counseled accepting the good with the bad and the beautiful with the ugly. So it is important to value each friend. Bacon condemns those seeking retribution who never allow their wounds to mend because they are constantly burning with pain and longing for causing harm. They keep their scars new by grinding on an axe. Otherwise, time will heal all wounds. On the hypocrisy of retaliation itself, Bacon comments. In other cases, the demise of tyrants like Caesar and others is celebrated. These overt acts of vengeance can serve as deterrents against oppression and wickedness, and occasionally they are even praised.

Of Revenge | Analysis

Bacon acknowledges that “public revenge for the most part is fortunate” and makes an incredibly compelling argument against taking private revenge in his article on the subject. He refers to vengeance as “wild justice”. He uses this comparison to highlight revenge’s animalistic essence. The ability to exact revenge is a trait of animals, not of people, who have the freedom to pardon and care for others. Essays by Bacon are known for being succinct but very understandable. He depicts both human and animal existence in its entirety, just as he would with a single act of wild justice.

Furthermore, according to Bacon, while the first wrong is governed by the law, avenging it is not. Revenge is a legal misunderstanding. When the author notes that the wise man is the one who ignores the wrongs of others done to him since he has much more to do in the present and future rather than addressing his previous concerns, the author is appealing to one’s wisdom of ethical supremacy in this essay. One should move on because past wrongs are irrevocable and cannot be undone. Bacon provides a reasoned justification for why someone might seek to harm others. As one does not make a mistake for the wrong reason. According to him, hurting people might be done for financial gain, for pleasure like a sadist, or to gain respect. One should not exact revenge on others if these were the causes of their wrongdoing.

Bacon contends that through exacting retribution, one seizes control of the law. If one seeks retribution, the law is meaningless. Such retaliation, however, is tolerable as there is no legal way to stop it. Bacon cautions that one should be sure there is no law to punish them at that point. Additionally, before exacting revenge, one should warn the target of the attack. They might feel bad, which is more valuable than hurting them. We can overlook wrongdoing committed by opponents because we anticipate them to do so, but what about wrongs committed against us by a close friend? Are such wrongs also pardonable? By citing Cosmus, the Duke of Florence, who said that we are required to forgive enemies but never friends, Bacon appears to shift his mind about not seeking retribution. But right after that, he references Job and claims that :

“if we are content and happy to receive all the good that God has to offer, then why are we not content and happy to receive all the evil”? Such people ought to be seen as wicked by God and not exact revenge.

Although Bacon strongly opposes taking private revenge, he contends that taking public revenge is usually a good thing since it sets a good example for everyone. Private vengeance, however, is regrettable. The victim of revenge leads a witch’s life and his wound never mends. The metaphorical comparison “Revenge is a kind of wild justice” emphasizes the unbridled and destructive character of retribution. The phrase “in passing it over, he is superior” poses a paradox because it implies that by forgoing retaliation, one acquires superiority.

The reference to Solomon’s proverb, “It is a man’s glory to ignore an offense,” lends credibility to the speaker’s viewpoint.

“ Why should I be angry with a man for loving himself better than me?” The idea of becoming enraged at someone for putting their interests first is contested rhetorically. The analogy between vengeful people acting covertly and “the arrow that flies from the dark” paints a clear picture of their stealthy and cowardly nature. The proverb that Cosimo de’ Medici is credited with coining, “Forgive enemies, but not friends,” is both smart and thought-provoking. The allusion to Job raises doubts about one’s capacity to tolerate both good and evil, extending the idea to relationships and forgiving others. The speaker’s argument is emphasized by the use of the word “Shall we” repeatedly in the sentence about removing good and evil from God’s control.

Bacon contends that revenge is a form of wild justice. Wild justice is a representation of animalistic conduct. Animals don’t have any laws or rules to keep order in their society. They also don’t have any rules and regulations. They, therefore, tend to seek retribution. In contrast, human civilization has laws that control how people behave. They shouldn’t have an animalistic desire to exact revenge on others. By doing this, they are putting the law in their hands, which is pointless in these circumstances. Private vengeance is regrettable and pointless since it puts the law in the hands of the person seeking it. To exact revenge, one needs to seek legal advice. Since there is no legal way to right such wrongs, retaliation is acceptable and fortunate. It is regrettable if there is legislation. The most unhappy individual is the one who is constantly looking for an opportunity to exact retribution since his wounds never heal and he leads a witch’s life. Retaliation is a topic where Bacon makes a strong moral and ethical case. He asserts that the wise man is the one who extends forgiveness to others and puts more emphasis on the present and future than the past. Living in the past is pointless since the wrongs of the past are over and cannot be undone. Simply forget, forgive, and proceed.

According to Bacon, most instances of public acts of retaliation are fortunate because they serve as role models for others. Bad leaders should be dealt with publicly and harshly so that others might take note and refrain from similar behavior. Vengeful people are portrayed as being extremely evil and doomed when they are compared to witches. The historical instances of public revenge, such as the plots to kill Caesar and Henry the Third of France, offer corroborating proof of its efficacy.

Overall, Francis Bacon’s essay is more convincing and rhetorical due to the use of strong, dominant language and persuasive literary devices, which draws the reader in and effectively conveys the author’s position on retribution.

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Of Revenge – Francis Bacon – Complete Explanation

by Francis Bacon

Complete explanation of the essay alongside the original text

Revenge is a kind of wild justice; which the more man’s nature runs to, the more ought law to weed it out.

Explanation

The urge to avenge the humiliations, injustices and wrongs heaped on us by others gives us some pleasure, relief and satisfaction. Such tendency to pay back our tormentors in their own coins is so pervasive and universal. However, such a toxic and in-born tendency must be curbed through legal means.

For as for the first wrong, it doth but offend the law; but the revenge of that wrong putteth the law out of office.

When the tormentor inflicts harm on his subject, he breaks the law, as no member of the civilized society is permitted to take law into his hand and cause physical or mental harm to a fellow human. In the same vein, the person who has been wronged, can’t hit back at his adversary. Logically, he should seek legal recourse to the injustice meted out to him, but if he impulsively harms the enemy, he breaks the law himself. Such acts of instant retribution is not permitted under law.

Certainly, in taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy; but in passing it over, he is superior; for it is a prince’s part to pardon.

Avenging a wrong, or a defeat or a humiliation lets the wronged person to draw level with his foe, and derive satisfaction. However, he chooses to forgive and forget, and does not allow the perpetrator’s evil act besmirch his self, he emerges as the true victor. Pardoning the evil-doer is not a sign of weakness or timidity. It takes great courage, moral strength, and magnanimity of mind to pardon the sinner. Such ability to ignore the scars left by the wrong-doer needs a big heart and a sagacious soul. Ordinary humans can not bring themselves to rise to the occasion and let the quality of pardon come to the fore. It is, therefore, seen that a person in exalted position such as a prince is given the authority to grant royal pardons to sinners. A prince, because of his status and clout is seldom harmed or belittled. So, he is not generally gripped by anger against commoners. This allows him to pardon the evil-doers.

And Solomon, I am sure, saith, “It is the glory of a man to pass by an offence.” That which is past is gone, and irrevocable; and wise men have enough to do with things present and to come; therefore they do but trifle with themselves, that labor in past matters.

Prophet Solomon had proclaimed, “It is the glory of a man to pass by an offence.”. This means that a person who ignores the hurt and humiliation caused to him by others can lay claim to great glory and adulation.

An evil, once done, becomes history. It can not be reversed. There is little prudency in grumbling and burning in the bitterness left behind. Wise and conscientious people choose to think of works at hand and the tasks in the future. They realize the folly of crying over spilt milk. No doubt, they discern that whining over past injustices is futile, and unproductive. Worrying over the unpleasant past is an unnecessary and ruinous exercise.

There is no man doth a wrong for the wrong’s sake; but thereby to purchase himself profit, or pleasure, or honor, or the like. Therefore why should I be angry with a man for loving himself better than me? And if any man should do wrong merely out of ill-nature, why, yet it is but like the thorn or briar, which prick and scratch, because they can do no other.

Seldom does a man indulge in a wicked or immoral act just for the heck of it. What motivates him to do an abominable act can be just anything – the lure of profit, getting some pleasure, get some un-deserved honour, or any such urge. In the process, he stands to gain some material benefit or some mental pleasure.

With great equanimity, and rare sense of accommodation, Bacon asks himself why he should be annoyed if someone does something to amuse himself. In instances where a person does something that is really very upsetting, we must pause and realize that he has been cursed to have a mind that loves sadistic pleasure. Such people are condemned to miserable existence. In a way they deserve to be pitied and forgiven, because, like a thorn, they can’t do anything other than pricking others and inflicting pain. An ill-natured man is like a thorn condemned to live like a mischief-maker and a nuisance in society. This is enough punishment for him.

The most tolerable sort of revenge is for those wrongs which there is no law to remedy; but then let a man take heed the revenge be such as there is no law to punish; else a man’s enemy is still before hand, and it is two for one. Some, when they take revenge, are desirous the party should know whence it cometh. This is the more generous.

Bacon now proceeds to make certain concessions for the revenge seeker. He feels, there are can be certain loathsome and irritable acts for which there is no legal remedy. As a result, the perpetrator can not be brought to book, and so, get away with his crime. In such circumstances, taking revenge can be an acceptable recourse. Bacon, however, adds a caveat here. The act of revenge must be carefully chosen. It should be outside the purview of the prevailing law, so that the victim (wrong-doer, earlier) can’t sue the avenger.

In some cases, the avenger sets up his act such that the victim (wrong-doer, earlier) gets to know the source of his trouble. This gives the avenger some satisfaction. Such a move could not be as evil as the leaving the victim to wonder who harmed him. Bacon seems to approve of this as it limits the chance of the person turning on other innocent people.

For the delight seemeth to be not so much in doing the hurt as in making the party repent. But base and crafty cowards are like the arrow that flieth in the dark. Cosmus, duke of Florence, had a desperate saying against perfidious or neglecting friends, as if those wrongs were unpardonable; “You shall read (saith he) that we are commanded to forgive our enemies; but you never read that we are commanded to forgive our friends.

When the perpetrator gets to know that the person he wronged has come back to him with vengeance, he will be deterred from repeating his earlier mischief. He may feel some remorse thinking that he should not have, in the first place, indulged in the evil act. However, vile and crooked persons do not have the moral strength to admit that they did the wrong thing. This complicates the situation.

Cosmus, the Duke of Florence, had some friends who were either deceitful or insincere in their friendship. Their nature used to annoy Cosmus a lot. He admonished their supercilious and favour-seeking attitude rather strongly. He warned them that he would never pardon them, although he was fully empowered to pardon offenders.

“But yet the spirit of Job was in a better tune: “Shall we (saith he) take good at God’s hands, and not be content to take evil also?” And so of friends in a proportion. This is certain, that a man that studieth revenge keeps his own wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well. Public revenges are for the most part fortunate; as that for the death of Caesar; for the death of Pertinax; for the death of Henry the Third of France; and many more. But in private revenges it is not so. Nay rather, vindictive persons live the life of witches; who, as they are mischievous, so end they infortunate.

Job, the Biblical character, gave some sound advice in the matter. He wondered if we gratefully accept from the hands of God only those things that we like, and refuse those, not to our liking. This is also true in friendship. Both good and not so good friends are to be adored. A vengeful person never allows the scars left by other’s misdeeds to heal. Had he not been so vindictive, memories of hurt and humiliation would fade off with the passage of time.

Acts of revenge, committed in full view of the public, can often have some salutary effect at times. The events such as the death of Caesar, the death of Pertinax, the death of Henry the Third of France were generally considered desirable, although these events were driven by revenge. On the other hand, urge for revenge lying deep in one’s mind can be really toxic. Surely, but slowly, this devilish passion consumes the bearer. These people live miserably and die miserably.

Click here for explanations of more essays by Francis Bacon.

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What is the summary of this essay of revenge by Francis Bacon?

Ah, revenge is like a dark storm cloud, my friend. In this essay by Francis Bacon, he explores how seeking revenge can consume us and bring more harm than good. Bacon reminds us that forgiveness and letting go can bring peace and light into our lives.

Revenge is a kind of wild justice; which the more man's nature runs to, the more ought law to weed it out. For as for the first wrong, it doth but offend the law; but the revenge of that wrong, putteth the law out of office. Certainly, in taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy; but in passing it over, he is superior; for it is a prince's part to pardon. And Solomon, I am sure, saith, It is the glory of a man, to pass by an offence. That which is past is gone, and irrevocable; and wise men have enough to do, with things present and to come; therefore they do but trifle with themselves, that labor in past matters. There is no man doth a wrong, for the wrong's sake; but thereby to purchase himself profit, or pleasure, or honor, or the like. Therefore why should I be angry with a man, for loving himself better than me? And if any man should do wrong, merely out of ill-nature, why, yet it is but like the thorn or briar, which prick and scratch, because they can do no other. The most tolerable sort of revenge, is for those wrongs which there is no law to remedy; but then let a man take heed, the revenge be such as there is no law to punish; else a man's enemy is still before hand, and it is two for one. Some, when they take revenge, are desirous, the party should know, whence it cometh. This is the more generous. For the delight seemeth to be, not so much in doing the hurt, as in making the party repent. But base and crafty cowards, are like the arrow that flieth in the dark. Cosmus, duke of Florence, had a desperate saying against perfidious or neglecting friends, as if those wrongs were unpardonable; You shall read (saith he) that we are commanded to forgive our enemies; but you never read, that we are commanded to forgive our friends. But yet the spirit of Job was in a better tune: Shall we (saith he) take good at God's hands, and not be content to take evil also? And so of friends in a proportion. This is certain, that a man that studieth revenge, keeps his own wounds green, which otherwise would heal, and do well. Public revenges are for the most part fortunate; as that for the death of Caesar; for the death of Pertinax; for the death of Henry the Third of France ; and many more. But in private revenges, it is not so. Nay rather, vindictive persons live the life of witches; who, as they are mischievous, so end they infortunate

Revenge is:- A Dish Best Served Cold.

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What is the summary of 'Of-Death' by Francis Bacon?

In â??Of Deathâ?? by Bacon discusses manâ??s fear of death. Although nothing exists to really support the belief that death is a horrible experience, it is still a great fear for many people. The essay attempts to provide reasons the reader should not view the inevitable end of us all with fear. The main thrust of his essay is that this is a natural progression and therefore, should not be feared.

When is the summary of an essay located?

What is a good conclusion for an essay about why tattoos are wrong.

A summary of the overall context of the essay.

Complete explanation on Francis Bacon's essay of youth and age?

Bacon's essay "Of Youth and Age" has actually been written to familiarize the people with the worth of the people belonging to two extremely crucial stages of life (i.e., young and old). Involvement of the people belonging to these two age groups in any worldly activity may result in a wonderful success. Moreover, Bacon has also given a great comparison in between young and aged people which seems to be quite interesting for the reader.

Summary of Russell Baker's essay Marriage a la mode?

Who is the father of essay.

francis bacon

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Francis Bacon

What is the summary of this essay of adversity by Francis Bacon?

In his essay "Of Adversity," Francis Bacon discusses the benefits of facing challenges and hardships in life. He argues that adversity can bring out the best in people by building resilience, character, and wisdom. Bacon suggests that adversity should be embraced as a way to develop inner strength and learn important life lessons.

What is the analysis of the poem Of Studies by Francis Bacon?

It's not a poem , It's an essay!

What would be good quotes for the SAT essay?

knowledge is power - francis bacon

What were the scientific discoveries of Francis Bacon?

in your own opinion , which of the philosophical studies in bacon`s essay are relevant to you how could they help you toward developing yourself and improving your lif (of studies francis bacon)?

Who wrote Of Studies?

Francis Bacon wrote the fine essay Of Studies in the Sixteenth century.

What is the analyzes of Francis Bacon's essay of Death?

Type your answer here... if any body have explanation of this essay plz share with other

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"Of Expense" by Francis Bacon is a reflective essay that explores the topics of frugality and wastefulness in spending money. Bacon discusses the virtues of careful spending and the potential consequences of extravagance on personal finances and reputation.

Who is the father of English essay?

Francis Bacon (1561-1626) was the first really major English essayist,

What is the Theme of of studies by Francis Bacon?

The theme of "Of Studies" by Francis Bacon is the importance of education, learning, and knowledge in the pursuit of personal and professional development. Bacon emphasizes the value of reading, writing, and critical thinking as essential tools for intellectual growth and success in life.

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Of Revenge, Francis Bacon: Summary, Analysis & Themes

Summary of "Of Revenge"

• Revenge as wild justice: Bacon opens by describing revenge as a "wild justice," meaning it is a natural but uncontrolled form of justice that people gravitate toward. However, he argues that the law should be responsible for preventing revenge, as revenge corrupts legal order.
• Superiority in forgiveness: He states that while seeking revenge may make one equal to their enemy, choosing to forgive or overlook an offense shows superiority. Bacon references biblical wisdom, specifically citing Solomon's teaching that "It is the glory of a man to pass by an offence."
• Futility of dwelling on the past: Bacon emphasizes that focusing on past wrongs is unproductive. Wise men, he suggests, focus on the present and future. They do not dwell on matters that cannot be undone.
• Motive behind wrongdoing: People do not commit wrongs simply to harm others, but rather to gain something for themselves—whether it be profit, pleasure, or honor. Thus, it is foolish to be angry at someone for acting out of self-interest.
• Exception for certain wrongs: Bacon acknowledges that there are some wrongs that the law cannot address. In such cases, he argues that revenge may be more tolerable, but warns that revenge should not be illegal, lest the avenger also become a wrongdoer.
• Different types of revenge: Bacon contrasts those who seek revenge openly, desiring their enemy to know where it came from, with those who act in secrecy, like "the arrow that flieth in the dark." He considers secretive revenge as cowardly and dishonorable.
• Revenge in public vs. private matters: Public revenges, such as those for political wrongs, are often deemed fortunate, like the assassinations of Julius Caesar or Henry III of France. However, private revenge brings misery to individuals who pursue it.
• Effect on the avenger: Bacon concludes by stating that people who focus on revenge keep their wounds fresh, preventing their emotional healing and leading to a life of torment, similar to that of a witch who dies in misfortune.

Analysis of "Of Revenge"

• Revenge vs. law: Bacon highlights the conflict between personal revenge and the function of the law. Revenge undermines the rule of law by taking justice into one's own hands. Bacon advocates for the law to restrain individuals from seeking revenge to maintain societal order.
• Revenge and moral superiority: The essay explores the moral dimensions of revenge. Forgiving or overlooking an offense elevates a person above the wrongdoer. By not seeking revenge, one demonstrates a higher ethical standard and an ability to rise above personal grievances.
• Pragmatic approach to wrongdoing: Bacon takes a pragmatic view of human nature, suggesting that people commit wrongs not out of sheer malice, but to gain something for themselves. This perspective helps mitigate personal anger toward wrongdoers, as their actions are seen as driven by self-interest rather than a desire to harm.
• Open vs. secret revenge: Bacon makes a distinction between open, "generous" revenge and secret, cowardly revenge. He argues that open revenge, where the wrongdoer knows the source of retaliation, is more honorable, whereas secret revenge is underhanded and morally inferior.
• Psychological consequences of revenge: Bacon argues that revenge is psychologically damaging. By holding onto grievances, individuals keep their emotional wounds open, preventing them from healing. The pursuit of revenge ultimately consumes the avenger, leading to personal misery.
• Historical examples: The essay uses historical examples of public revenge, like the assassination of Julius Caesar, to show that public acts of revenge are sometimes viewed positively, even though private acts of revenge are personally destructive.

Themes in "Of Revenge"

• Justice vs. revenge: One of the central themes of the essay is the tension between justice and revenge. Bacon argues that revenge is a perversion of justice, as it places personal vendettas above the rule of law. True justice, Bacon suggests, lies in forgiveness and letting go of past wrongs.
• Forgiveness and moral superiority: The theme of forgiveness is critical to the essay. Bacon presents forgiveness as a morally superior alternative to revenge, highlighting the glory and nobility associated with pardoning offenses.
• Human nature and self-interest: Bacon's understanding of human nature underpins much of his argument. He believes that people wrong others not for the sake of causing harm but for personal gain. This pragmatic view encourages a more rational, less emotional response to being wronged.
• The destructive nature of revenge: The psychological and emotional toll of revenge is a recurring theme. Bacon emphasizes that those who seek revenge keep their own suffering alive, preventing any hope of healing or peace. Revenge, in his view, is ultimately self-destructive.
• Public vs. private revenge: The essay distinguishes between public and private acts of revenge. Public revenges, particularly in political contexts, are often seen as justified or even necessary. In contrast, private acts of revenge are shown to be harmful to the individual and lead to misfortune.

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Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works

By francis bacon, francis bacon: essays and major works summary and analysis of the essays, part two (moral).

Notable moral essays include "Of Revenge," "Of Envy," "Of Love," Of Truth," and "Of Goodness and Goodness in Nature."

In "Of Revenge," Bacon says that revenge is a natural inclination for man, but that does not mean that the law should allow it. Instead, the more vengeful men become, the more involved the law should be in combatting pursuits of revenge.

Bacon explains that in seeking revenge, one may become even with his enemy, but in bypassing revenge, he becomes superior to his enemy.

In "Of Envy," Bacon suggests that the two most powerful human emotions are love and envy, as they both have the power to "bewitch "(354). He says that only men who have no virtue themselves will be eternally envious of others. Accordingly, those with superior virtue are often the subjects of envy.

In "Of Love," Bacon argues that the theatre is a better home to portrayals of love, as love often appears in lighthearted comedies. In life, by contrast, love can cause "mischief" and pain (358). Bacon explains that revered figures from history remained unaffected by love and desire, which he describes as a "weak passion" that corrupts virtuous hearts (358).

In "Of Truth," Bacon admits that truth is perplexing, evasive, and often unpalatable. He says that truth may be valued at the price of a pearl, but that it will never be valued at the price of a diamond – meaning that while men aspire to know the truth, it never offers as much pleasure as "a mixture of a lie" (341).

In "Of Goodness and Goodness in Nature," Bacon argues that there are two types of goodness: goodness of habit, and goodness in nature. The latter Bacon defines as the inclination toward goodness, while the former is learned goodness that one observes in society. Goodness stems directly from the virtue of charity, and Bacon argues that without goodness, man is a "busy, mischievous, wretched thing" (363).

Bacon's moral essays are similar to his civil essays, in that he offers general conclusions about human ethics and encourages his readers to pursue a virtuous, Christian life. Most of Bacon's aphoristic quotations come from his moral essays, as he reflects on the nature of man's folly with an eye toward offering a better path. Crucially, many of Bacon's moralisms in these essays were also being explored in other early modern literature and culture – most significantly on the Renaissance stage.

The revenge tragedy became an important and recurring genre during this time period, producing such celebrated plays as Thomas Kyd's The Spanish Tragedy (credited as being the first revenge tragedy), Shakespeare's Hamlet , and Thomas Middleton's The Revenger's Tragedy . In these plays, revenge is the central motivation for characters to act, but revenge is also presented as paralyzing, maddening, and ultimately fruitless (in all these plays, the main character dies).

These plots are in many ways dramatizations of Bacon's own assertion that exacting revenge puts one on equal footing with their enemy, but declining the impulse for revenge elevates one to a higher and more virtuous status (of course, the characters in these plays never experience the latter, therein providing their own moral).

Indeed, Bacon continues to rely on theatrical metaphors throughout his moral essays. While some might argue that this interest can serve as evidence that Bacon was a closeted playwright (or even the "real" William Shakespeare), it is more likely that these metaphors simply underscore the extent to which theater had taken hold over early modern England. The theater was a popular genre of entertainment, and was at the time mostly considered a "low-brow" enterprise for the masses. Thus, when Bacon moralizes that love is best meant for the theater, he offers a critique both of love – claiming it is merely a passion that destroys weak men – and the theater, which he perhaps saw as more apt to handle lighthearted entertainment than serious questions of ethics and philosophy.

Now, of course, readers often turn to early modern drama precisely for insight into Renaissance philosophy, showcasing how much Bacon shared in common with the genre of literature he purported to find insufficient for tackling questions of human knowledge.

Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Bacon is the greatest exponent of Renaissance Idealism. Examine this statement with reference to the essays you have studied.

Although Bacon was famous his renaissance idealism, I do not know what essays you have studied.

why baccon used OF before starting his essays

becose it is used to mention the things particular

What is Sir Francis Bacon’s main purpose in the text?

In this essay Bacon states his ideology about education and learning. He argues that, "studies serve for delight, for ornament, and for ability." Bacon felt that people should delight in knowledge for its own sake rather than a means to an end...

Study Guide for Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works

Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works study guide contains a biography of Francis Bacon, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis of select works.

• About Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works
• Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works Summary
• Character List

Essays for Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works

Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Francis Bacon's quotes and writings.

• An Scholarly Analysis of A Scholar's Analysis

Wikipedia Entries for Francis Bacon: Essays and Major Works

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In this article, we’ll be discussing Francis Bacon’s “Of Revenge.” We’ll be looking at the main ideas and themes of the piece, as well as giving a brief summary. We’ll also be discussing what makes this essay so memorable and important. We have divided the summary into three parts so you can read and memorize the summary Of Revenge easily.  So, if you’re interested in learning more about “Of Revenge,” then keep reading!

The Summary of “Of Revenge”

The first part of “of revenge” summary.

Bacon thinks that revenge goes against both God’s morality and the way people should treat each other. Bacon makes a strong case that getting even hurts more than it helps. The first sentence of the essay is a criticism of revenge. “Revenge is a type of savage justice,” it reads. The more man’s nature runs to it, the more the law should weed it out.” This means that getting revenge is not civilized and leads to chaos. In a society where the rule of law is most important, revenge has no place. According to Bacon, revenge is bad and forgiveness is good, but there are times when revenge is acceptable.

Bacon makes a case for forgiveness by saying that forgiving an enemy show that you are a better person. A man can make up with an enemy by getting his own back. But by not taking revenge, he shows that he is a better person than his enemy. Forgiving an enemy show that you have a good heart. A man commits a crime in order to make money, for fun, to get a better job, or for any other similar reason. So, there’s no reason to be mad at a man just because he’s self-centered. And if a person does something wrong just because he wants to, it is best to ignore him because he is like a thorn or briar, which hurts but doesn’t help.

The Second part of the summary Of Revenge

In one sentence, Bacon says that revenge is wrong, and in the next, he tells people how to get their own back. This is a good way to act. Bacon says, “The most tolerable kind of revenge is for wrongs for which there is no law.” But he says that this revenge should be taken very carefully so that the person taking it doesn’t get caught by the law, which would give his enemy a double advantage. He says that it is kind of the revenger to tell the victim his name because the pleasure of revenge isn’t so much in causing pain as it is in getting the other person to realize he was wrong.

Bacon doesn’t like sneaky cowards because they hide their identity from the person they want to hurt, which defeats the purpose of revenge. He says, “But dirty and sneaky cowards are like an arrow that flies in the dark.” Bacon uses the different points of view of Cosmus and Job to show another part of revenge. Cosmus says that a wrong done by a friend is worse than a wrong done by an enemy. Job, on the other hand, thinks that if we expect good things from our friends, we should also be ready to forgive them if they hurt us. So, as Bacon seems to imply, it is kind to forgive our friends, and doing so strengthens the bonds between people. Near the end of the essay, Bacon makes a difference between public and private vengeance. A lot of money has been made because some important people were killed.

The third part of the summary Of Revenge by Bacon

Bacon is right when he says that Augustus, who avenged the death of Julius Caesar, Septimius Severus, who avenged the death of Pertinax, and Henry IV, who avenged the death of Henry III, all lived long and happy lives. Also, their countries have earned respect in this area. On the other hand, Bacon is against getting your own back. He thinks that someone who is always thinking about getting revenge and doing violent things is like a witch. A witch dies too soon, and a person who wants to get even also dies too soon.

The essay shows how much Bacon knows about many different things. He uses stories from history and the Bible to show how his points are true. There are many examples, comparisons, and metaphors. There is a saying that compares men with bad attitudes to thorns and briars that poke and scratch.

People who want to exact revenge but do so in secret are like an arrow in the dark. There is a parallel between revenge seekers and witches, both of whom are executed for unethical behavior. There is no such thing as difficult-to-understand reasoning. The sentences are brief but dense with meaning. The style is concise, and the sentences are well-written.

You can read more summaries of Bacon: – The Summary of “Of Great Place” – Another is “Of Love” – Bacon’s Of Marriage and Single Life -Of Truth Summary

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Of Revenge by Francis Bacon

REVENGE is a kind of wild justice; which the more man’s nature runs to, the more ought law to weed it out. For as for the first wrong, it doth but offend the law; but the revenge of that wrong putteth the law out of office. Certainly, in taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy; but in passing it over, he is superior; for it is a prince’s part to pardon. And Solomon, I am sure, saith, It is the glory of a man to pass by an offence. That which is past is gone, and irrevocable; and wise men have enough to do with things present and to come; therefore they do but trifle with themselves, that labor in past matters. There is no man doth a wrong for the wrong’s sake; but thereby to purchase himself profit, or pleasure, or honor, or the like. Therefore why should I be angry with a man for loving himself better than me? And if any man should do wrong merely out of ill-nature, why, yet it is but like the thorn or briar, which prick and scratch, because they can do no other. The most tolerable sort of revenge is for those wrongs which there is no law to remedy; but then let a man take heed the revenge be such as there is no law to punish; else a man’s enemy is still before hand, and it is two for one. Some, when they take revenge, are desirous the party should know whence it cometh. This is the more generous. For the delight seemeth to be not so much in doing the hurt as in making the party repent. But base and crafty cowards are like the arrow that flieth in the dark. Cosmus, duke of Florence, had a desperate saying against perfidious or neglecting friends, as if those wrongs were unpardonable; You shall read (saith he) that we are commanded to forgive our enemies; but you never read that we are commanded to forgive our friends. But yet the spirit of Job was in a better tune: Shall we (saith he) take good at God’s hands, and not be content to take evil also? And so of friends in a proportion. This is certain, that a man that studieth revenge keeps his own wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well. Public revenges are for the most part fortunate; as that for the death of Cæsar; for the death of Pertinax; for the death of Henry the Third of France; and many more. But in private revenges it is not so. Nay rather, vindictive persons live the life of witches; who, as they are mischievous, so end they infortunate.

More from Francis Bacon :

• Of Vicissitude of Things
• Of Judicature
• Of Honor and Reputation
• Of Vain-glory