Dr. Ramirez
Graham Greene. The Power and the Glory
Darkness and isolation actually bring the priest
closer to humanity.
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Physical journey parallels the spiritual journey
for his parishioners/or the descent into doubt
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In innocence he learns little, but in corruption
he learns to love
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In isolation, he is faced with his own deeds and
decisions; allows for self-reflection
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Anti-hero
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Climate: the church versus the fascist state
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In dealing with the slop of humanity, he is closer
to them
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In darkness of cell, he confesses about his drinking
and his child.
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Refuses martyrdom
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Won't take confession
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The Juan figure is a foil for the priest
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By being stripped of everything, he learns the value
of being a priest
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Decay and yellowing of teeth--index of character
Does his forgiveness make him a Christ figure?
No: He's not
Sins are common and predictable
Therefore his own sin is predictable
Assumes an other identity
Yes: He is
He partakes in the problems and struggles of
the common people--literally by sharing a cell with them, but acknowledging
his daughter. The people are the Church, not the trappings.
Parallel with the association with thieves, publicans,
and "dregs" and rebels of society; a descent into the essential lived life
Sin to turn himself in.
How is he human?
Oscillates between doubt and faith (service delivered
in village and the "confession" in the cell)
drinks, but alcohol gives him courage and obscures
the gloomy reality
Relevant films and books:
Last Temptation of Christ: (starring Willem
Dafoe)
The Gospel According to Jesus Christ (by
Jose Saramago)