Holiness

Definition

Holiness refers to a state of being sacred or set apart, often associated with moral purity and divine presence. In literary contexts, especially in works like 'The Faerie Queene', holiness embodies the ideal of virtue and righteousness, often depicted through characters who exemplify these qualities in their quests and challenges. It highlights the contrast between good and evil, showcasing the struggle for spiritual integrity and the pursuit of a higher moral standard.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Faerie Queene', holiness is primarily represented by the character of Redcrosse Knight, who symbolizes the Christian quest for salvation and virtue.
2. The poem presents holiness as an ideal to be aspired to, often requiring trials and tribulations to attain true moral integrity.
3. Holiness is contrasted with vice throughout the narrative, emphasizing the importance of moral choices and the consequences of straying from virtuous paths.
4. The concept is deeply rooted in Christian theology, reflecting ideas of sanctification and the necessity of divine assistance in achieving holiness.
5. Throughout the story, holiness is depicted as not just a personal trait but also a communal goal, encouraging readers to pursue a collective moral and spiritual journey.

Review Questions

• How does the character of Redcrosse Knight illustrate the concept of holiness in his journey?
  • Redcrosse Knight embodies holiness through his quest for virtue and redemption. His journey is filled with trials that test his moral integrity and faith, ultimately leading him toward personal growth and spiritual enlightenment. The challenges he faces reflect the struggle between good and evil, emphasizing that achieving holiness requires perseverance and reliance on divine grace.
• Discuss the relationship between holiness and virtue as portrayed in 'The Faerie Queene'.
  • In 'The Faerie Queene', holiness is intricately linked to virtue, where both concepts are essential to the moral fabric of the narrative. Characters striving for holiness must also exhibit virtues like courage, temperance, and justice. The poem showcases how these virtues not only define individual characters but also guide their actions towards achieving a higher moral standard and fulfilling their destinies.
• Analyze how Spenser uses the theme of holiness to comment on societal values during his time.
  • Spenser employs the theme of holiness to critique societal values by highlighting the importance of moral integrity amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and corruption. By showcasing characters who strive for holiness despite external challenges, he emphasizes the need for individual ethical responsibility. This theme serves as both a reflection of and a response to the struggles faced by Elizabethan society, urging readers to reconsider their own values in pursuit of a more virtuous community.

Related terms

Virtue: A quality considered morally good or desirable in a person, often linked to actions that align with ethical principles.

Divine Grace: The free and unearned favor of God, often seen as a source of strength that helps individuals achieve holiness.

Redemption: The act of being saved from sin, error, or evil, frequently explored in literature as a path towards achieving holiness.