Embarking on a Journey to the Celestial City in 'The Pilgrim's Progress'
What trait poses the greatest challenge on the pilgrimage to the Celestial City in 'The Pilgrim's Progress'?
1. Self-righteousness
2. Humility
3. Obedience
4. Faith
The trait that poses the greatest challenge on the pilgrimage to the Celestial City in 'The Pilgrim's Progress' is:
1. Self-righteousness
In John Bunyan's allegorical novel 'The Pilgrim's Progress,' the character trait that poses the greatest challenge on the journey to the Celestial City is self-righteousness. Characters like Ignorance and Talkative represent this trait, believing that their own good works and external display of piety can earn them entry into the Celestial City. However, the novel emphasizes that salvation is achieved through faith and grace, not through personal efforts.
Self-righteousness, which falsely suggests that one's works alone can lead to salvation, serves as a significant obstacle on the pilgrimage. Characters who embody this trait ultimately find themselves denied entry into the Celestial City, highlighting the importance of humility, obedience, and faith on the spiritual journey.
By understanding the contrast between self-righteousness and the virtues of humility, obedience, and faith, readers can grasp the deeper religious messages embedded in 'The Pilgrim's Progress.' This trait serves as a cautionary example of the dangers of relying solely on one's own righteousness rather than acknowledging the grace of God.