In Cry, the Beloved Country, Alan Paton uses religion as one of the most prominent and exemplary themes of the book. Book I shows that Stephen Kumalo and the other main characters consider God to be the most important thing in life. Paton’s examples of religion through mannerisms and conversation are crucial in the story line. The theme represents that religion was a very large part of South Africa at this time, and helps the reader understand the context and actions of the characters. In almost every chapter, there is at least one mention of God or faith that ties into the current situation of the book.
As Stephen Kumalo goes through all the troubles and hardships that life gives to him, he always turns to God as his main solace. When he discovers the fate of his son Absalom, his faith is only strengthened. God seems to test Kumalo over and over again, but he only prevails. In Chapter 13, he is “recovered” after attending Msimangu’s sermon that he feels is directed straight to him. Paton’s descriptions of Kumalo in prayer and turning to fellow Christians display that religion is a main theme and lead point of Kumalo’s journey in Johannesburg.
Alan Paton used a strong biblical allusion when he chose to name Stephen Kumalo’s son Absalom. In the Bible, Absalom is the son of David who is disloyal and deceitful. He causes great pain to his family by departing from his morals and becoming an awful sinner and disgrace. Just as Absalom is the Bible, Absalom in Cry, the Beloved Country betrayed his family. He left his native country for selfish reasons and ended up in a very low place with no one to turn to. Also, both Absaloms committed murder, but in completely different contexts. This allusion proves that Paton has a strong attachment to his Christianity and that he shows it throughout his writing.
Lastly, Alan Paton demonstrates how religion clashes with government and society in South Africa. In Chapter 7, Stephen Kumalo encounters his brother John. In their conversation, Stephen brings up the Church and injustice. He powerfully argues that Bishops “speak against the laws,” and that in the church “you are not free.” Here Paton shows his view through Stephen Kumalo that while the Church is against injustice, its leaders lavish in what injustice allows. The hypocritical attitude provides proof that religion and society are always tied together in some way, especially in places with such strong hate for one another. Paton is again bringing religion in as a critical point of the story.
So far, Alan Paton has shown his view of religion incredibly throughout Book 1. The theme has been a key factor of all the significant events and ideas that have happened. The main characters and situations regarding them revolve around their religion and morals, such as Stephen Kumalo’s faith as he encounters trials and tribulations. Paton uses allusions and many biblical terms that point to Christianity and its importance throughout his writing.
