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Epilogue 2
Explanation and Analysis—Wargrave's Account:
The Epilogue primarily takes the form of a series of flashbacks, as Justice Wargrave recounts his meticulous planning and orchestration of the string of murders on Soldier Island. The deaths of Blore, Lombard, and Claythorne, for example, are presented by Wargrave in a vivid flashback:
And now came the moment that I had anticipated—three people who were so frightened of each other that anything might happen—and one of them had a revolver. I watched them from the windows of the house. When Blore came up alone I had the big marble clock poised ready. Exit Blore.… From my window I saw Vera Claythorne shoot Lombard. A daring and resourceful young woman. I always thought she was a match for him and more. As soon as that had happened I set the stage in her bedroom [...] Vera Claythorne hanged herself before my eyes where I stood in the shadow of the wardrobe.
Wargrave, who targeted a series of individuals whom he suspected of being responsible for the deaths of others, describes his excited state as his plot unfolds. He focuses on “the moment” that he “had anticipated” when Blore, Lombard, and Claythorne turn on each other, as they believe that they are the only remaining survivors. Previously, many of these deaths, such as that of Blore, were inexplicable and mysterious. These flashbacks, however, explain how Wargrave was able to carry out his plans despite appearing to have already been killed. These flashbacks, then, present the “solution” to the mystery at the core of the novel.
Related Themes:
