Symbolism
Much of the symbolism in The Oath relates to sin and its damaging effects. The dragon represents sin, and the fact that it grew from a small size to a terrifying one portrays how sin can become a habit. The black rash also makes correlations, beginning as a painful affliction but soon making its victims feel indifferent. They eventually begin to stink, and their condition is noticed by everyone except themselves. Levi Cobb's ministry and sacrifice can be compared to that of Jesus Christ, and Harold Bly and the townspeople represent the "fallen", those who can no longer tell right from wrong. The "Oath" itself symbolizes how some try to hide sin, and the bear that was initially blamed for Cliff's death represents scapegoats that sinners often use to excuse their sin.
The Oath Alternative Symbolic Meaning
A person that no longer cares about his or her rash will also no longer care about what sins they have committed. Once they have compromised their values and no longer care, they will begin to do the same in other areas. The dragon, or Satan, will then be able to take them over completely, while they continuously sin.
Read more about this topic: The Oath (Frank E. Peretti Novel)
Famous quotes containing the word symbolism:
“...I remembered the rose bush that had reached a thorny branch out through the ragged fence, and caught my dress, detaining me when I would have passed on. And again the symbolism of it all came over me. These memories and visions of the poor—they were the clutch of the thorns. Social workers have all felt it. It holds them to their work, because the thorns curve backward, and one cannot pull away.”
—Albion Fellows Bacon (1865–1933)