Greed

Main Plot

Greed follows the story of a miner named McTeague, who becomes obsessed with wealth after winning a fortune in a lottery. His newfound riches lead to a series of events that unravel his relationships and moral compass. McTeague's marriage to Trina, a woman who also comes into money, becomes strained as her greed and desire to hoard their wealth take precedence over their love. The couple's life spirals into chaos as jealousy, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of money take hold. The film explores themes of avarice and the darker aspects of human nature, showcasing how the pursuit of wealth can lead to destruction and despair. As tensions rise, the characters are pushed to their limits, revealing the devastating consequences of their greed-driven choices.

Characters

• Gibson Gowland plays John McTeague, a dentist whose life spirals into obsession and tragedy after his wife wins a lottery, leading to greed and betrayal.
• Zasu Pitts plays Trina Sieppe, whose lottery win leads to greed, jealousy, and tragedy, driving the film's central conflict and character transformations.
• Jean Hersholt played Marcus Schouler, a pivotal character whose betrayal and greed lead to the tragic downfall of his friend, McTeague.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Greed, the narrative reaches a dramatic conclusion as the central conflict surrounding the destructive nature of greed culminates in tragedy. After a series of events driven by the characters' insatiable desire for wealth, the protagonist, McTeague, finds himself isolated and consumed by his own greed. The film's climax occurs when McTeague confronts his wife, Trina, over her hoarding of the lottery winnings. This confrontation escalates into violence, symbolizing the complete breakdown of their relationship and the moral decay brought on by greed. As McTeague's desperation grows, he ultimately succumbs to his primal instincts, leading to a brutal act that seals his fate. The film concludes with McTeague fleeing into the wilderness, where he faces the harsh realities of his actions. The final scenes depict his inevitable downfall, illustrating the consequences of unchecked greed and the loss of humanity. The ending serves as a poignant commentary on the destructive power of avarice, leaving viewers to reflect on the moral implications of the characters' choices throughout the narrative. Greed ultimately portrays a bleak vision of human nature, emphasizing that the pursuit of wealth can lead to ruin and despair.