Question

3. The truth is that our Christian civilization is riddled through and through with dilemma. We believe in the brotherhood of man, but we do not want it in South Africa. We believe that God endows men with diverse gifts, and that human life depends for its fullness on their employment and enjoyment, but we are afraid to explore this belief too deeply. (Pg. 187)
What kind of hypocrisy is Arthur Jarvis describing in this passage?

Answer 1

Answer:

Religious Hypocrisy

Explanation:

The given lines are an extract from Alan Paton's "Cry, The Beloved Country."

James Jarvis reads these lines written by his son Arthur. Major concerned theme in these lines are:

Religious Hypocrisy

Racial Superiority

Self delusion

Arthur is shown as the true believer of Christian values and critical of the condition in South Africa through these lines. He adheres to the Christian doctrines that propagates the equality, brotherhood and love. South Africa followed the Apartheid system which means racial segregation of individuals due to their skin color. Black men were not allowed to be seen with a white man. The evil is completely against the Christian civilization and teachings of Jesus. Arthur deconstructs the narrative of racial superiority by explaining white man's delusion and religious hypocrisy. Christians believe that all men are equal in front of God but Colonial era completely departs from the long enshrined beliefs.