Discussion Topic

Key Events and Climax of "The Bronze Bow"

Summary:

The key events in The Bronze Bow include Daniel's encounter with Jesus, his struggle against the Romans, and his growing friendship with Joel and Thacia. The climax occurs when Daniel's sister Leah is healed by Jesus, leading Daniel to understand the power of love and forgiveness over hate and violence.

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What is the main event in Chapter 5 of "The Bronze Bow"?

The turning point for Daniel in Chapter 5 is his realization of Rosh's selfishness and disregard for both his followers and the people he is supposedly protecting and liberating.

Rosh sends Daniel on an espionage mission, thinking that his friendship with Joel and Thacia might enable Daniel to glean information...

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from their powerful father, Rabbi Herzon.  However, Rosh gives Daniel nothing in order to get what he wants:  no food, no money, no plan. 

On the way, Daniel overhears Jesus speaking to his throngs of followers.  He cannot help but notice how Jesus cares for the people, not only their spiritual needs, but also their bodily ones.  The contrast between the cruelty of Rosh and the gentleness of Jesus is startling.

Later, as Daniel succeeds in gaining entry to the Rabbi's home, he also understands how the power of Jewish law is as flawed as Rosh's belief in force.  It is the beginning of Daniel's journey to understanding that "only love can bend the bow of bronze." 

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What is the climax of The Bronze Bow?

The climax is the point of highest dramatic tension in a narrative. It can occur when the main character is at their lowest point or when they must make a choice that changes everything. In The Bronze Bow, the climax involves Daniel's decision to let go of his hatred for the Romans. Throughout the novel, blind vengeance has been Daniel's primary motivation. He sees violence as the one way the Jews can be liberated from the Roman Empire. However, Jesus of Nazareth has consistently provided an alternative based on forgiveness and love. His approach confuses Daniel, who is still too dedicated to revenge to embrace such a position.

By the climax, Daniel is desperate. His sister is dying and he has lost his faith in Rosh, the rebel leader. He is able to contact Jesus, who heals Leah. In this moment, Daniel has been psychologically healed as well: Jesus's act makes Daniel fully understand the power of love and mercy compared to hate and vengeance, which only estranged him from his family and put his life in peril. The resolution following this climactic scene shows the fruits of this change: Daniel invites Marcus, the Roman soldier Leah loves, into their home.

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