tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4251897905740186859.post1072606751662280055..comments2017-12-28T22:14:50.950+10:30Comments on Library Creature: Mists of Avalonkristine Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202917905756050811noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4251897905740186859.post-47571528017404449522014-02-07T00:20:06.923+10:302014-02-07T00:20:06.923+10:30Exactly, Peggy. Gwen *should* find some comfort or...Exactly, Peggy. Gwen *should* find some comfort or have some transcendent experience at some point if we as readers are to believe she's not a complete dupe (or so I think). I know my faith has helped me through tough times, I know plenty of other people who've found great comfort in their times of trial through their religious faith. While I was reading it seemed like that recognition--that Christian faith offers comfort to Gwen and its other adherents--is missing. Not totally, of course; Gwen remembers her time in the convent fondly, and it might be that's what I'm supposed to assume is enough to hold Gwen through her life. It just feels rather a slim comfort, especially compared to the deep and complicated faiths Morgaine and Vivianne have. Also, masochistic, bordering on self-destructive on Gwen's part. Sure, that desire for punishment/pain could be part of her character, but again, I'd expect that to be more thoroughly explored.<br /><br />Otherwise, I truly did enjoy the book :) It's a fun way to re-read the story. Made me want to read more of your take on the myth, hint hint :)kristine Nhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08202917905756050811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4251897905740186859.post-79260053929994796272014-02-06T09:53:00.295+10:302014-02-06T09:53:00.295+10:30**Again, tragic, but I think more in that Christia...**Again, tragic, but I think more in that Christianity in general is given short shrift by Bradley's refusal to give someone a positive experience with the religion. Really, people aren't dumb enough to join a religion that gives them nothing.**<br /><br />You're forgetting, Christianity DOES promise something, even when it sucks for women - "If you do what God wishes, you will go to Heaven." (Yes, totally paraphrasing tons of scripture into a simple sentence.) <br /><br />This principle helps modern Christians get through horrible times in their lives - why wouldn't it help Christians in an earlier time get through horrible lives?<br /><br />(That being said, it's been YEARS since I read this book. It's totally possible that the author didn't represent Christianity fairly. Not really commenting on the story so much as your last statement.)Peggy :)https://www.blogger.com/profile/02148894957737862721noreply@blogger.com