In "The Man Without a Country" by Edward Everett Hale (often mistakenly attributed to Walter Hackett), the theme of corruption is developed primarily through the portrayal of the justice system and its impact on the protagonist, Philip Nolan.
The narrative illustrates how the corrupt justice system favors influential individuals, allowing them to evade punishment for their crimes, while Nolan, an innocent man, is wrongfully condemned and exiled. This exemplary injustice showcases a system that prioritizes the powerful over the rightful, indicating a broader societal corruption that ultimately results in Nolan’s perpetual separation from his homeland.
Furthermore, the corrupt system manipulates Nolan’s fate, compelling him to renounce his country and shift his loyalties. This manipulation leads Nolan to develop a deep-seated resentment and alienation toward the country he once loved, highlighting how corruption can distort personal identity and allegiance.
By depicting Nolan's tragic story, the narrative serves as a critique of systemic corruption, illustrating its detrimental effects not only on individuals but also on national loyalty and personal integrity. Through these elements, the play effectively conveys the profound consequences of corruption within the justice system and its ability to irrevocably change a person’s life.