Guestsplaining: Katy Carl on Catholic Literature

Written by St. Athanasius in the 4th century, 'On the Incarnation' is an apologetic treatise that defends the incarnation of Christ against non-believers. Athanasius explains that the Word of God became incarnate to save fallen humanity, arguing that this act was necessary to undo the corruption of sin and restore humanity to its original state in the image of God. The book relies heavily on Scripture and the teachings of the early Church, addressing various objections to the incarnation and emphasizing the divine and human natures of Christ.

Written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky between 1867 and 1869, 'The Idiot' follows the story of Prince Lev Nikolayevich Myshkin, a young man with a pure and innocent heart, often mistaken for an 'idiot' due to his simplicity and goodness. The novel examines how this 'positively beautiful man' navigates a world filled with corruption, moral decay, and complex human relationships. Myshkin's interactions with characters like Nastasya Filippovna and Aglaia Epanchina highlight themes of love, suffering, sacrifice, and the clash between idealistic values and the harsh realities of society. The novel ultimately leads to Myshkin's mental breakdown and his inability to cope with the world around him.

Set in 19th-century Russia, 'The Brothers Karamazov' is a novel that delves into the lives of the Karamazov family, focusing on the three brothers—Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha—and their complex relationships with their father, Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov. The novel is a murder mystery, a courtroom drama, and an exploration of erotic rivalry, faith, doubt, and reason. It examines the human psyche, moral dilemmas, and the search for meaning in a world fraught with suffering and uncertainty. The story revolves around the murder of Fyodor Pavlovich and the subsequent trial of Dmitri, accused of the crime, while exploring deeper themes of Russian life, social and spiritual striving, and the clash between faith and reason.

Walter Ong's "Orality and Literacy" explores the profound influence of oral and written communication on thought and culture. Ong argues that the shift from oral to literate cultures fundamentally reshaped human consciousness, impacting memory, perception, and the very structure of thought. He contrasts the characteristics of oral cultures, emphasizing their communal nature and reliance on memory, with the individualistic and analytical tendencies fostered by literacy. The book examines how different modes of communication shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. Ong's work has had a lasting impact on fields such as rhetoric, anthropology, and media studies, influencing scholars like Marshall McLuhan. His insights continue to be relevant in understanding the impact of new technologies on human cognition and social interaction.

François Mauriac's "Viper's Tangle" is a powerful novel exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the complexities of human relationships. Set against the backdrop of the French bourgeoisie, the story delves into the moral and spiritual struggles of its characters. Mauriac's writing is characterized by its psychological depth and unflinching portrayal of human flaws. The novel's exploration of sin and grace, and its examination of the human condition, resonate with readers even today. Mauriac's masterful storytelling and his ability to capture the nuances of human emotion make "Viper's Tangle" a compelling and enduring work of literature.

Published in 1928, 'Mr. Blue' tells the story of J. Blue, a modern St. Francis figure who inherits $2 million but chooses to give it all away to embrace a life of poverty and spiritual freedom. Blue lives in a packing box on a New York City rooftop, embracing the poor as his friends and companions, and is fascinated by the wide expanse of God's universe. The novel contrasts Blue's selfless dream, founded on the gospel example of Jesus and St. Francis, with the materialistic pursuits of characters like Jay Gatsby from F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby'. The book has been a source of inspiration and delight for many readers since its publication.