East of Eden: Paradox 1 key example

In this excerpt, Steinbeck personifies Liza's moral code, stating that these ideas would "pin down" and "beat the brains out of" any shred of personal enjoyment or satisfaction. Paradoxically, this bit of figurative language conflates morality and violence, which one might traditionally assume are opposing concepts. This line forms a connection between religious moral codes and the violent acts they often inspire. This violence takes multiple forms: on a large scale, major Christian religious institutions in Europe were key actors in encouraging and justifying imperialism. On the level of Liza Hamilton, however, this violence is less exploitative and more about simple enforcement. Liza ascribes to the moral rules in the Bible that must be enforced, and violence is the easiest way to enforce them.

Violence aside, the object of Liza's opposition includes "everything that was pleasant to do." This antagonistic relationship with pleasure is a key aspect of Liza's character, influencing how she raises her children.