The Power and the Glory is a fictional tale chronicling the non-fictional purges of Catholicism in Tabasco, Mexico in the early 20th century. The novel was first published in 1940; Greene was inspired by his visitation to Mexico.
Plot Summary
The novel centers on an unnamed character known as “the whisky priest.” He is allegedly the only remaining Roman Catholic Priest yet to renounce Catholicism. However, the priest is paradoxical in many ways. His deeds contradict his religious beliefs. Regardless, the priest is self-aware of his predicament. He has fathered and illegitimate child, drinks whisky, and seeks profit from his services. While on the run, the whisky priest attempts to absolve as many sinners as possible. However, he fears that at the same time he is not leading by example. Although seemingly irrevocably despicable, readers will begin to sympathize with the excessively humble priest who is torn between a life of sainthood and carnal desires.
The foil to the whisky priest is another unnamed character, known to readers simply as “the lieutenant.” The lieutenant is a socialist who is devoted to purging Mexico of the last remaining priest. He wants to make a better life for the people and posterity of Mexico. However, he paradoxically takes hostages and kills civilians in his quest for the whisky priest. Although these characters have opposite religious beliefs, there are overlapping aspects of their personality. This creates an interesting dialogue that explores the significance of faith in relation to humanity.
Novel Structure and Themes
The Power and the Glory is broken up into four parts. Death, sin, and piety are recurring themes throughout the novel. This short novel is devoid of excess. Each character, idea, and word serves to drive the plot and the main themes of the novel. The book unfolds quickly and does not climax until the near end of the story, when the whisky priest and the lieutenant meet face to face. They engage in a dialogue that captures the depth and complexity of religion and its effect on the 20th century man.
Greene grasps an acute skill of creating characters. He is also skilled at using the environment to create and atmosphere that is suitable for the plot. Greene sets the mood for a powerful scene before the events even unfold.
The Power and the Glory was included on Time magazines list of 100 Best English-language Novels from 1923 to 2005. Although the author is Catholic himself, the novel was the subject of controversy among many Catholics.
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