Previous
Similes
Pages 21-28
Explanation and Analysis—Jonathan Edwards:
John Ames’s brother Edward is a major character in John’s life. Edward was named after their uncle Edwards, who was named for Jonathan Edwards. Jonathan Edwards was an American revivalist preacher in the 18th century. His most famous sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,” prompted the First Great Awakening. He is often associated with religious fervor and passionate sermons.
Related Themes:
Pages 217-232
Explanation and Analysis—Gilead Rejects Jack:
In the climax of Gilead, Jack Boughton tells John Ames that he has a wife and child. His wife is Black, and his child is mixed race. As an interracial family, they aren’t accepted by his wife’s family or by many of the places where they try to live. Jack wants to bring the family to Gilead and, in a passage rife with irony, he asks John if he believes the town would accept them. As much as John would like to say yes, he doesn't know if it would, and he can’t promise to be alive for long enough to ensure that it does.
Unlock with LitCharts A+
Related Themes:
