Silence
Brief Overview
The novel «Silence» by Shusaku Endo tells the story of Portuguese missionary Sebastian Rodrigues, who travels to 17th-century Japan to find his mentor who has renounced his faith under torture. In Japan, Christianity is persecuted, and Rodrigues faces brutal trials as he witnesses the suffering of local Christians. He struggles with inner doubts and questions about faith, divine silence, and the meaning of suffering. In the novel's climax, Rodrigues is faced with a choice: to maintain his faith and condemn others to suffering or to renounce it and save their lives. The novel raises profound questions about faith, betrayal, and human frailty.
Date of publication: 23 August 2024
Updated: 14 November 2026
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Genre: Historical novel
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