by Conan Doyle · Cluster: Drama · Adventure · The Stage
Abstract
An allegorical verse-drama in which personified guides — Faith (in its many sectarian forms), Reason, Science and Inspiration — squabble over the true path to the City Beautiful, while a Man and Woman climb the mountain of life accompanied by Sorrow and the memory of their dead child. It dramatizes Doyle’s own tension between organized religion, rationalism, and the consolations of an afterlife.
Connections
Forms & Genres: Allegory, Verse Drama Themes & Concepts: Faith and Doubt, Doubt, Reason and Rationalism, Grief and Loss, Suffering and Pain, Hope Motifs: Journey, Road, Well Historical References: Christianity Settings: Mountains Archetypes: Pilgrim, Wise Old Man Sage, Mentor Topoi: Journey of Life, Open Road Homecoming