The Battle Between Good and EvilThe conflict between good and evil is universal to the human condition. This is a common theme in both history and literature. In 1866, Joseph Roux wrote: “Evil often triumphs, but never conquers.” In “Mercy Among the Children” by David Richards, the Henderson family suffers many injustices and is exposed to “evil” in many forms. Roux's statement can be analyzed through the examination of the characters, including the Hendersons themselves and those who affect them most profoundly. If anyone personifies evil in this novel, it is Mat Pit. Raised in a poor and abusive environment (Richards 294), he and his sister Cynthia are driven by ambition and dreams of escaping the circumstances of their youth. Mat is a major cause of the persecution suffered by the Henderson family, including the theft blamed on Elly (108), and the bridge sabotage/murder blamed on Sydney (108). Mat and his sister are “…the new ruthless entrepreneurs. They listened with almost stunned inattention to the words “ethics” and “moral responsibility”… But they both also knew… how to use their friends and how to abandon them in the blink of an eye” (99). Mat's "ruthless" nature and his lack of any sense of "moral responsibility" make him a formidable enemy. There is no indication that he has an internal struggle against evil, apparently “defeated” from an early age. Mat accepts evil amorally, with little evidence of remorse or regret. Throughout the novel, Mat shows no sign of any inner good “conquering” his evil character. The sabotage of the bridge resulted in the death of his disabled younger brother, Trenton, and by placing the blame on others, he is able to transform public sympathy so that his family holds a prominent position in the community (1. ..... middle of paper... ... strengthens his "own well-being", including his reputation In Sydney, evil has found its match The characters of "Mercy Among the Children" by David Richards. illustrate the inner struggle between good and evil This is the truth in Joseph Roux's quote: "Evil often triumphs, but never conquers. The Henderson family is severely tested, and their situation would justify." to turn to the dark side It is a tribute to the human spirit that they resisted descending to the level of those who persecuted them. The darker characters did not confirm the truth of the statement. de Roux, but the overall tone of the novel leaves the reader with a sense of hope that people like Sydney Henderson can make the world a better place for all of us. Cited Richards, David Adams. Mercy among children. Toronto: Anchor Canada, 2000.