After watching the "Man Behind the Curtain" again, I am convinced that Essau (the man in the black shirt) has been masquerading as Jacob for some time. When Ben took Jacob to the cabin, Ben was not surprised at all when Essau began shaking the cabin, making things flying around etc. My theory: Ben has been working with Essau the entire time, probably since Essau first appeared to Ben as his mother. The only thing that surprised Ben was that he spoke to Locke - that told Ben that Locke was a special and represented a threat to his leadership.
Other things behind my thinking:
1) Given Jacob's demeanor and gentle spirit does it really make sense that the real Jacob would order the purge? Jacob no, but Essau - as the great tempter and manipulator - yes.
2) Taking this a bit further, would Jacob order the extermination of a batallion of U.S. soldiers in the 1950s? Again, I think not, so, does that suggest that Essau has been mascurading as Jacob in front of Richard too? Or, Richard plays the role of "referee" between the two, never revealing his knowledge of Jacob, Essau, and their war.
Other things behind my thinking:
1) Given Jacob's demeanor and gentle spirit does it really make sense that the real Jacob would order the purge? Jacob no, but Essau - as the great tempter and manipulator - yes.
2) Taking this a bit further, would Jacob order the extermination of a batallion of U.S. soldiers in the 1950s? Again, I think not, so, does that suggest that Essau has been mascurading as Jacob in front of Richard too? Or, Richard plays the role of "referee" between the two, never revealing his knowledge of Jacob, Essau, and their war.
