The Pilgrim’s Progress: Part 2: Valiant-for-Truth Summary & Analysis

Before the group moves on, the Shepherds send them off with cautions. The group passes the place where Christian was led astray, and a little beyond it, they meet a bloody-faced pilgrim named Valiant-for-Truth. He explains that he was beset by three thieves who asked him to become one of their group, or else turn back, or be killed. Valiant fought them for hours and survived; the thieves fled moments before. Mr. Great-heart praises Valiant-for-Truth and admires his sword. After tending his wounds, they take him along.

Mr. Valiant explains that he comes from Dark-land, having learned of Christian’s journey from a man named Mr. Tell-true and eagerly gone on pilgrimage himself. His parents had tried to stop him, telling him about the many obstacles he will face, and that many have suffered and failed in the attempt. None of these efforts succeeded, however, because Valiant believed what he had heard from Mr. Tell-true.

When the group comes to the Enchanted Ground, they make their way carefully with swords drawn. The darkness and mist are so deep that they cannot walk by sight, but are forced to keep track of one another by words instead. At last, muddy, tired, and stuck with briars, they pass the arbor called Slothful’s Friend, but heeding Great-heart’s warning, they avoid stopping there. With the aid of a map, he also helps them avoid a muddy pit of great depth.

Passing another arbor, the group sees two sleeping pilgrims named Heedless and Too-bold, who talk nonsensically in their sleep but cannot be roused. Sadly and fearfully, the pilgrims continue on their way by the aid of a lantern.

A little later, they encounter a pilgrim named Stand-fast, who is praying desperately. Stand-fast explains that he was tempted by a well-dressed elderly woman named Madam Bubble, the Mistress of the World, who repeatedly offered him money, a bed, and the promise of happiness. When Stand-fast prayed for deliverance, the group of pilgrims arrived. Great-heart explains that Madam Bubble is a witch, and that she is responsible for enchanting this ground. She gossips, tempts others, and loves riches. She has ensnared many would-be pilgrims and helped send many to Hell. The pilgrims tremble and rejoice at Stand-fast’s deliverance from the witch.