Critically Analyzing The Effects Of Solitary Confinement Based On The Play Justice By John Galsworth

Oshi Yadav, Symbiosis Law School, Hyderabad

ABSTRACT

Justice by John Galsworthy is a 4-act play that revolves around the themes of solitary confinement and intends to introduce reforms to the British justice system at large. Our Protagonist is William Falder, a young solicitor's clerk, sentenced to three years in solitary confinement for embezzlement of money. It contains subplots of sexual harassment, corruption, and the disparity of justice between the rich and poor. The play adopts a satirical tone and presents the crushing reality of the legal system where the rich go free with just a slap on the wrist for heinous crimes like harassment, but the poor are beaten down with inhuman punishments for petty theft. Through this research paper, we will not merely understand the detrimental psychological impact solitary confinement can have on someone but also review the double standards of the justice system as displayed in the play. Even though our Protagonist is released after three years, his life is never the same. He finds himself without a job or a place to live and, above all, seems to have surrendered all faith in life. After having missed one session at the police station, he is afraid to be sent to the hell he just escaped. Despite his determination, he finds no way. As a result, he takes his own life—a tragic end to not much a tragic hero.

Keywords: Solitary Confinement, mental health, segregation, human rights, the justice system, research, isolation.