Hypocrisy and Authenticity

The critique of religious and social hypocrisy, particularly within Dissenting communities, and the protagonist's struggle to be authentic in his preaching and personal relationships despite pressure to conform.

The President and students are portrayed as worldly and insincere, while Rutherford struggles to express his true self in an environment that rewards conformity.

Rutherford's struggle with preaching orthodox phrases he no longer believes, and his resolve to avoid misleading language.

Miss Arbour's outwardly serene life hides a tragic past; Rutherford grapples with the authenticity of his relationship with Ellen.