The Last Temptation of Christ Themes

The Last Temptation of Christ Themes

Apocalypticism

Apocalypticism is the belief that prophecies concerning the end of the world are about to come true. This spirit fills Nikos Kazantzakis' The Last Temptation of Christ. It is first seen in Rabbi Simeon in Nazareth, who harangues parishioners from the apocalyptic prophets (Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Daniel) and has been told directly by God that he will not die without seeing the Messiah. It is seen in the Brotherhood of Zealots, two of whose members, Judas Iscariot and Barabbas, are prominent in the novel. These are terrorists dedicated to throwing the mighty Romans out of Israel and purging any Jews who collaborate. Every time the Romans crucify a Zealot, people gather to see if the Messiah will come to save the victim and begin their liberation. The Abbot in the desert monastery feeds on apocalyptic texts and cannot wait to die so he can present Israel's grievances at being so...
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