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Michael Crichton's The Great Train Robbery

Decent Essays

Criminology does not always limit itself to the “whodunit”. In many cases, criminologists analyze the motives of individual criminals and often ascertain (identify) the level of the “thrill factor” involved with a crime. Offenders are frequently inspired by the stimulation of danger and welcome the exhilarating challenges they find in outwitting others. Michael Crichton’s The Great Train Robbery illustrates Edward Pierce’s ability to employ his intellect, manipulative nature, and personal wealth to satiate(indulge in, fill) his unquenchable thirst to mastermind the greatest theft of the Victorian era. The confidence Pierce has in his intellectual ability stimulates his hunger to conquer the heist. When Richard Burgess informs Pierce of the railway’s change of rules, Robert Agar and Miriam question Pierce’s continuation of the pull. Pierce’s replies of “trust me” and “nothing beyond repair” demonstrate his confidence in his ability to outwit the new system (Crichton 190). When Scotland Yard was hot on his trail, Pierce brilliantly diverts attention to Greenwich (Crichton 173-176). Pierce’s exceptional wit allows him to passionately continue his pursuit. …show more content…

He enters the lives of his victims, ruthlessly uses them to his own advantage, and rejoices in the benefits gained from his gullible acquaintances. Pierce questions Henry Fowler, showering him with compliments until he unwittingly divulges all the bank’s gold shipment precautions (Crichton 13-16). After Pierce manipulates Elizabeth Trent into disclosing information that leads to the discovery of a key, he exclaims how happy he is with her (Crichton 83-84). Anyone was fair game to

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