Often, Revenge is defined as being a harmful action against a person or group in response to a grievance, be it real or perceived.
It is used to punish a wrong by going outside of the law.
This is because the individual taking Revenge feels as though the law will not do justice.
People who are more vengeful tend to be those who are motivated by power, by authority and by the desire for status. They do not want to lose face.
Humans are not the only species known to take revenge. Many species of primates have been recognized to seek revenge.
Chimpanzees are one of the most common species that show revenge due to their desire for dominance.