![]() One of the most prevalent themes in the criticism of the novel is that of the unreliability and instability of the narrative. Fanaticism is dangerous for the individual and for society. Fanatical beliefs, in fact, often lead their adherents to do things that the scriptures would actually forbid. ![]() Blanchard's critique of Robert and Gil-Martin is appropriate to reference here, as he notes that the views are extremist, dangerous, and against the spirit of Christianity. This sets fanatics apart from modern society with its emphasis on sublimation of individual impulse in order to promote the collective good. Fanatics adhere to dogma in the most restrictive, zealous way, claiming that their own interpretation of scripture is the only valid one. ![]() Set in Scotland during a period of strife regarding church and state, the antinomian strain of Calvinism is depicted as both an understandable development in light of its context but also as an excrescence, a perversion of the truth faith. The novel is often seen as a commentary on religious fanaticism. ![]()
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