Point of View

The Testament of Mary is told from the first person point of view of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Mary’s narrative is significant because it offers an argument to the reader that, perhaps, Mary knew very little of her son’s ambition and his plans for himself. Mary does not present herself as a sacred figure. Mary is very realistic in this novel. She is a grieving mother who wishes that she could have done more to save her son.

Language and Meaning

Due to Mary’s grief and her lack of knowledge, some parts of this story can be difficult to follow because the language is so veiled. In the beginning, for instance, Mary admits that she cannot bring herself to call her son by name. Those familiar with the Biblical story of the crucifixion know that her son’s name is Jesus...