What Does ‘Wouldst Thou Like To Live Deliciously’ From The Witch Mean?

by

In the early colonial era, “The Witch” portrays a Puritan family clashing with witchcraft and Satanism. It additionally explores how unyielding self-reliance contributes to the family’s demise. William, played by Ralph Ineson, who admitted being forever changed by the film, struggles to fit in with fellow Puritans, causing his family of five to be exiled from their colony. As they settle near a suspected witch’s dwelling, one by one, they fall victim to the witches residing there. The movie’s defining quote, “Wouldst thou like to live deliciously?”, symbolizes the conflict between desiring worldly pleasures and bearing the burden of sin throughout the film.

At the close of the movie “The Witch,” only the eldest daughter Thomasin (Anya-Taylor Joy) remains alive after her family is murdered. Although her parents had accused her of witchcraft and involvement in the kidnapping of her baby brother, she was previously innocent. Now isolated with no other options, Thomasin appeals to the devil by communicating with their menacing goat, Black Phillip. She believes that Black Phillip is the devil, and he does respond to her questions, saying, “Wouldn’t you like a taste of butter? A nice dress? Wouldn’t you like to live indulgently?” Thomasin thinks that Black Phillip represents the devil.

As a gamer, I find myself yearning for an escape from the harsh, unyielding reality that’s been my constant companion – the endless chores, sacrifices, and pain. Life has felt more like a grueling challenge than a delightful journey. But then there’s Black Phillip, whispering promises of joy, luxury, and perks others seem to savor.

In my bleak, Spartan existence, these little treats have been as elusive as rare game items. My prayers to God have gone unanswered, leaving me bereft of family. It’s no surprise then, that in this desolation, I find myself reaching out to Black Phillip, seeking his guidance towards a life lived deliciously.

Robert Eggers thought hard about Black Phillip’s iconic line

Thomasin is depicted in her final moments, covered in blood, without clothes, and erupting in uncontrollable laughter as she floats upwards, joining her newly formed coven of witches. It’s evident that the concept of “living deliciously” transcends mere enjoyable meals and fashionable attire, encompassing the acquisition of extraordinary powers and supernatural prowess.

In an attempt to make Thomasin’s decision seem more plausible, director and screenwriter Robert Eggers emphasized that keeping her choice rooted in reality helped audiences comprehend why she would accept Satan’s offer. As Eggers explained in “The Witch Screenplay Book” (via Den of Geek), many filmmakers during test screenings found the events to be somewhat random, suggesting that Satan could offer her things more relevant to the film’s overall themes. Eggers continued to refine his script, eventually incorporating promises that Satan actually made.

As a devoted fan, I’m sharing insights from Eggers’ work that showcase his commitment to historical accuracy. He delves into real testimonies of individuals who claimed to be possessed by the devil, including instances where the accused mentioned minor favors like new shoes as temptations. This dedication to authenticity is evident throughout his works, even extending to details such as criticizing the earring holes in “The Witch” that didn’t align with the era’s fashion.

In “The Witch,” Thomasin is already destined for slavery before encountering Black Phillip. Given her familiarity with the supernatural by the film’s end, it can be said that she chooses the devil she knows, as the phrase goes – and Thomasin has certainly become well-acquainted with the devil in this chilling tale.

Read More

2025-01-14 20:29