The subject of revenge is fascinating to me because it is the most ancient form of justice (I researched a lot about it for my book :-) Before the state took over the role of administering law and order, individuals and their kin would be responsible for obtaining their own justice for any wrongs done to them via complicated systems of vengeance (or gift-giving and payment). Honor and status were entirely dependent on one's ability to retain the upper hand in these situations (and help one's friends and family). Failure to do so meant humiliation and loss of status. Obviously, this could lead to a cycle of violence, which is why societies have mostly agreed that this function is best handled by the (hopefully) impartial third party of the state. Of course, that doesn't stop everyone...
The subject of revenge is fascinating to me because it is the most ancient form of justice (I researched a lot about it for my book :-) Before the state took over the role of administering law and order, individuals and their kin would be responsible for obtaining their own justice for any wrongs done to them via complicated systems of vengeance (or gift-giving and payment). Honor and status were entirely dependent on one's ability to retain the upper hand in these situations (and help one's friends and family). Failure to do so meant humiliation and loss of status. Obviously, this could lead to a cycle of violence, which is why societies have mostly agreed that this function is best handled by the (hopefully) impartial third party of the state. Of course, that doesn't stop everyone...