The Court
In this text, the court represents the corruption that existed in society at the time Godwin was writing. Godwin is drawing attention to the fact that people could essentially buy their innocence, as Falkland does in the text. Although Falkland is guilty of murder, he is not accused due to his position in society. Ultimately, through the character of Caleb, Godwin presents this as being immoral and wrong.
Emily's death
In the text, the death of Emily Melville represents the demise of Tyrell. Due to Tyrell’s cruel actions, harassment and false accusations, Emily is sent to prison and dies after a nervous breakdown. The rest of the community shun Tyrell, and he is filled with bitterness and hatred. This results in Tyrell’s attack of Falkland, which in turn results in Tyrell’s murder.
Curiosity
At the beginning of the text, Caleb admits that he is a very curious person. It is this curiousness that leads him to question whether Falkland killed Tyrell, looking through his possessions and observing his behavior. Arguably, it is Caleb's curiosity that leads to his demise in the text, where he is accused of stealing and runs away. Falkland states that he will receive retribution for his curiosity.
Hawkin's letter
Caleb discovers Hawkin's letter, which is in Falkland's possession. This letter proves Caleb's suspicions that Falkland was the real killer of Tyrell. Caleb uses this and other evidence to try and get Falkland to admit the truth, which he eventually does.
