Most of this book seemed rather negative and critical to me, and although the ending falls along the same lines I think it's actually kind of a happy resolution. Not in a happily ever after way, but in a real way.
I love the Deacons reaction when he enters the barn.
"The Deacon bowed his scarred grey head to his hands, and the men of Wapiti community, Metis and Mennonite, standing in an old barn, heard the sobs of a great strong man, suddenly bereft, and broken. They heard, terrified."
This seems like a sad moment but I think it's really beautiful. Block has finally admitted his defeat, and given up control. He publicly acknowledges his brokenness, which must be very humbling for him. According to 18th century Mennonite writer John Brenneman humility is the way we build a relationship with Christ. Part of accepting forgiveness is acknowledging our weakness as human beings. Block tried to create a perfect little world by hiding his imperfections and the evil of the world from the community, but eventually the bubble popped. The lies ended and now the healing can begin.
It's also a humbling moment for Thom when he loses control and hits Herb. After being so critical of everything throughout the whole book, he finally fails himself, bringing the cycle of hypocrisy full circle. This is just part of being human. Thom's recognition of failure in himself allows him to forgive others for their misgivings.
I think this scene is also exemplary of the tragedy narrative Ervin Beck spoke about in class. The intricacy and specificity of this particular tragedy were really interesting to me and I think this scene captures a lot of that specificity, particularly in terms of location, theology and Mennonite culture.
ReplyDeleteIt's very interesting that humility can almost be considered a humorous flaw of Mennonites today, but in this novel, this scene sort of represents a type of healing or point of resolution for Block.
ReplyDeleteJacob, I appreciate your insights into the ending. Thanks for sharing that quote from 18th century writer John Brenneman about humility. Wiebe shows us the truth that forgiveness of others requires us to acknowledge of our own failings. I agree with you that these failings at the end of the novel offer the reader something to build on--the hope that the community's hypocrisy has been broken open and that healing can begin.
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