The Cream of the Jest · Question
How does The Cream of the Jest develop the theme of Religion and Mortality?
Answer
The Cream of the Jest by James Branch Cabell develops Religion and Mortality across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book critiques organized religion as a promise of a better 'tomorrow' that distracts from the present, while also confronting the fear of death and the human need for transcendence.
The chapter explores how religious belief is manipulated for political and economic ends, and how martyrdom is seen as essential for the survival of faith.
Kennaston critiques religion for promising a better tomorrow while urging disregard for the present, and contrasts it with art.
Evidence in the book
- XXIII: Economic Considerations of Piety
The chapter explores how religious belief is manipulated for political and economic ends, and how martyrdom is seen as essential for the survival of faith.
- XXVI: “Epper Si Muove”
Kennaston critiques religion for promising a better tomorrow while urging disregard for the present, and contrasts it with art.
