<P> Revenge as a genre has been consistent with a variety of themes that have frequently appeared in different texts over the last few centuries . Such themes at hand include but are not limited to: disguise, masking, sex, cannibalism, the grotesque, bodily fluids, power, violent murders, and secrecy . Each theme, along with the concept of dramatic irony, play a large role in the success of revenge in literature . Dramatic irony is a literary device in which the audience possesses knowledge unavailable to characters in a novel, play, or film . Its purpose is to intensify the tragic events that are going to unfold by creating tension between the audience and the actions of the characters . It is essential to narratives of revenge . </P> <P> The most common theme within the genre of revenge is the recurring violent murders that take place throughout the text, more so, however, in the final act or scene . The root of the violence is usually derived from the characters' childhood development . Violent murders are seen in many texts ranging from dramas to novels . Carrie, a 20th century novel written by Stephen King, has prime examples of this theme that do, indeed, occur during the final scenes . Another interesting text that incorporates this theme is the sixteenth - century drama Titus Andronicus by William Shakespeare . </P> <P> Continuing on, the themes of masking and disguise have the ability to go hand in hand with one another . A character may employ disguise literally or metaphorically . A mask, per se, is the literal example of this theme; while pretending to be something one is not is considered to be the metaphoric example . Additional themes that may cause the protagonist and antagonist to develop a masked or disguised identity include sex, power, and even cannibalism . Examples of sex and power being used as themes can be seen in the novel Gone Girl, by Gillian Flynn, as well as the already mentioned drama, Titus Andronicus . </P> <P> Overall, although revenge is considered a theme in itself, its constant development over the last few centuries can allow it to be considered a genre as well . Key components, expressed as themes, that make up this genre are prevalent in copious literary works . </P>

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