The Power and the Glory

Main Ideas

• Conflict between religion and state: the book explores the clash between the Catholic Church and the anti-clerical government in Mexico.
• Theme of sin and redemption: the main character, the 'whisky priest', grapples with his sins and seeks redemption despite his weaknesses.
• Human weakness and resilience: the characters in the book display both weakness and resilience in the face of persecution and danger.
• Moral ambiguity: Greene delves into the complex moral dilemmas faced by the characters, showing that good and evil are not always clear-cut.
• Faith and doubt: the book raises questions about faith, doubt, and the spiritual struggles people face in difficult times.
• Sacrifice and self-sacrifice: the theme of sacrificing for others and self-sacrifice for higher purposes runs throughout the novel.