Cry, the Beloved Country | Themes and Characters
The underlying theme of Cry, the Beloved Country, as in all of Paton's works, involves the unifying power of love and the divisive force of fear. Paton feels that only love—for one another and for the land itself—can bind together the country's diverse ethnic groups and allow them to overcome their fear and mistrust of one another.
Such fear and mistrust is rampant in the cities of South Africa, and Paton's central theme addresses the attractions, temptations, and dangers of urban society. As tribal societies continue to break down, the apparent wealth and excitement...
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