The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan

A journey that takes the hero, Christian, through the varied landscapes that constitute life and through the events that happen to human beings is the plot of The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan. Readers who have read and loved Louisa May Alcott's Little Women would recall the many references to this 17th century work of religious fiction. The Pilgrim's Progress is based on several values based in the teachings of Christianity. The importance of using the Bible as a guiding principle in life, of traveling not just geographically but also spiritually, the emphasis on community living and of the companionship of fellow people and many other themes. The story begins with a detailed explanation by the author in which he explains his beliefs about misconceptions in people's minds about religion and fiction. He examines the role of stories and parables in the Bible and how they are used to teach us certain lessons about life. The narration goes on to portray a dream that the narrator has once when he is wandering in the wilderness. In the dream, a man named Christian is visited by a spiritual guide called Evangelist who urges him to leave his home in the City of Destruction and embark on an arduous journey to the Celestial City. Christian's family and friends refuse to go with him and he finally leaves alone, carrying a heavy burden. The rest of the book describes the strange and laborious journey, punctuated by grief, disappointment, fear and many difficulties. Each of these incidents are portrayed as different people or places that Christian has to pass or overcome before he can continue on his journey and reach his final glorious destination. Written in the period between 1677-84 by writer/preacher John Bunyan whose own life was as eventful, fraught with suffering and misfortunes, The Pilgrim's Progress was written during one of his terms of imprisonment for violating religious laws. The book received enormous acclaim and went on to become one of the most popular religious texts in Christianity. It was translated into many languages and was used by preachers and missionaries the world over. The Pilgrim's Progress retains enormous appeal for its imaginative and lyrical prose, wonderful descriptions of landscape and travel, simple yet elegant style and also for the delightful touches of humor. Many of the names of places are phrases taken from the Bible, which went on to become common idioms. For modern-day readers, both young and old, Pilgrim's Progress is an interesting and inspiring read.