Deception In John Steinbeck's East Of Eden

Since childhood, people learn to pursue a pure conscience, trust among loved ones, and to not sin. This lesson repeats itself until the end of time, but many still forget. Adults often struggle with realizing that society builds off of deceit out of a hunger for power. Others deceive themselves by living in a world of illusions, relishing the short-term bliss. That said, once the illusion crumbles, it also destroys him. Likewise, in East of Eden, John Steinbeck explores the double-edged sword of deception. Just as in society, many characters throughout the story appear innocent and sinless. Even so, Steinbeck evinces humanity’s inherent dependence upon the selfish use of deception, without considering the consequences.

Despite her lithe body and pretty face, Catherine Amesbury's entire world revolves around deceit. Cathy's beauty entrances Mr. Edwards, who clings to the belief that her innocence is no mask. The narrator reveals that, “Mr. Edwards wanted with all his heart to believe in her goodness, but he was forced not to, as much by his own particular devil as by her
The inclusion of Cathy’s enticing beauty and innocent facade along with Adam’s strong morals and kind-hearted soul insinuates virtuous character, yet both succumb to the sin of deception. While Cathy exploited others for pleasure and Adam for an idyllic world, both suffered as much as the other for failing to recognize what the outcome of their deception would have been. As in everyday society, people confront and attempt to handle deception in their personal or work-related lives—even the innocent and unsuspecting. They lie for satisfaction or status or to themselves, such selfish endeavors, without consideration that what small pleasures they experience only last