Part 1, Scene 4 Summary

Cain, described as a husky young African American, stands over the body of his brother Abel, whom he killed with a rock. God enters. Cain explains that he was working in the field and Abel made fun of him. God says that he committed a crime. Cain counters by explaining it was Abel's fault by calling him a brainless fool. God does not judge Cain but sends him out of the county to find a wife and raise a family. Cain walks off. God tells Adam and Eve to have Seth and more children.

Part 1, Scene 4 Analysis

This story of Cain and Abel differs from that in the Bible, which refers to different sacrifices offered to God, one acceptable and one without explanation. Cain's justification for killing his brother in the play is as good a fable and more understandable. God's...