The theme of Murder on the Orient Express revolves around justice and morality. The story presents a complex situation where the distinction between right and wrong becomes blurred. Hercule Poirot, the famous detective, faces a unique moral dilemma as he investigates the murder of Samuel Ratchett, a man with a notorious past. As he delves deeper, it is revealed that each of the suspects has a motive linked to Ratchett’s previous crimes against a young girl.
This theme challenges the reader to consider the nature of justice. Is it simply a legal concept, or does it have a broader moral dimension? The passengers on the train take justice into their own hands, believing that Ratchett, who was never held accountable for his actions, deserves retribution. Poirot’s ultimate decision reflects the idea that sometimes, moral justice may supersede legal justice, prompting readers to question their own beliefs about right and wrong. The intricate web of relationships and motives deepens the exploration of these themes, making Agatha Christie’s work a profound commentary on the complexities of human morality.