Summary
First published: New York: Atheneum, 1980
Genre(s): Novel
Subgenre(s): Historical fiction (twelfth century); saint’s meditation
Core issue(s): Guilt; memory; mysticism; sainthood; sin and sinners
Principal Characters
The novel "Godric" presents a rich tapestry of characters, each contributing to the protagonist's journey. At the center is Godric himself, an octogenarian hermit who reflects on his life, haunted by guilt and driven by an inner quest for redemption. His friend, Roger Mouse, embodies the spirit of adventure and roguishness, frequently accompanying Godric on his tumultuous ventures. Burcwen, Godric's sister, shares a uniquely complex and poignant bond with him. Meanwhile, Aedwen, Godric's mother, represents familial duty and spiritual longing, and William, Godric’s brother, becomes a tragic figure in the narrative. Reginald, a monk, is tasked with writing Godric's biography, capturing the essence of his spiritual journey. Other key characters include Falkes de Granvill, a wicked baron who entangles Godric in his schemes, Elric, an ascetic hermit, and Perkin, a young servant who cares for Godric in his old age.
Overview
"Godric" weaves a fictional tale around the life of a twelfth-century hermit, exploring the intricate interplay of sin and sanctity. The story unfolds as Godric recounts his experiences to Reginald, a monk chronicling his life. The narrative begins with a miraculous event from Godric's youth, where a drowning incident leads to a vision of a Christ-like porpoise. Rescued by his sister Burcwen, Godric embarks on a journey seeking fortune and spiritual enlightenment. Despite an intense emotional connection, he forbids Burcwen from accompanying him, fearful of the inappropriate nature of their love.
Godric's adventures continue with the tale of Peregrine Small, a victim of mistaken identity who dies at the hands of a frenzied mob. Godric profits from Small's death by selling relics purportedly imbued with the martyr's blood, a choice that burdens him with guilt. His life takes a turn towards the maritime, as he and Roger Mouse purchase a ship, the Saint Esprit, deceitfully posing as pirates to rob unsuspecting pilgrims. This duality in Godric's character is symbolized by his alternate identity, "Deric," under which he hides his rogueries.
Upon returning home, Godric is met with the news of his father's death and finds his sister blossomed into womanhood. Aedwen, his mother, driven by a dream, embarks on a pilgrimage to Rome with Godric to pray for Aedlward's soul. The corrupt and decaying Rome they encounter serves as a stark emblem of humanity's frailty. During their journey, a mystical encounter with a woman named Gillian challenges Godric's perception of himself, revealing his life as one of indulgence and misuse of divine grace.
Godric's path next leads him to servitude under Falkes de Granvill, where he becomes embroiled in the unjust oppression of peasants. His time as the baron's steward grows increasingly burdensome, filled with moral compromises and the abandonment of Hedwic, the baron's child bride, who confides in him about the baron's huntsmen's deceit. Unable to reconcile his actions with his conscience, Godric flees, his heart heavy with guilt.
Reuniting with Roger Mouse, Godric finds himself amidst the turmoil of the Crusades, navigating the historical and spiritual tensions of the era. A falling out with Mouse propels Godric to the River Jordan, where a divine voice beckons him once more. His spiritual awakening leads him back to Farne, where he unearths his ill-gotten gains and gives them away. He becomes an acolyte to the hermit Elric, whose ascetic worldview eventually proves too joyless for Godric.
Following Elric's death, Godric transitions to life as a sexton and scholar. He constructs a cell near the River Wear, demarcating this point as a turning...
(This entire section contains 1022 words.)
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in his life. His family re-enters his life, with Aedwen, Burcwen, and William joining him. The family dynamic intensifies as Godric, overwhelmed by forbidden feelings for Burcwen, succumbs to his desires, leading to a familial tragedy as William drowns, a loss for which Godric blames himself.
In his later years, Godric confronts the legacy of his life when Reginald reads aloud the biography penned about him. Although dismissive of the hagiographic portrayal, Godric acknowledges the potential for his story to inspire, even in its sanitized form. As he approaches death, Godric seeks purification, calling on Perkin to submerge him in the river, symbolically cleansing himself before passing at the age of 105.
Christian Themes
The novel "Godric" delves deep into the essence of holiness, questioning what it truly means to live a sacred life. The narrative is imbued with Christian motifs, framed as a spiritual odyssey. From the outset, a priest likens life to a street lined with doors, each representing the choices and paths leading to divine communion. Godric’s journey is marked by an ongoing discovery of God’s presence, reflecting Frederick Buechner's belief in the sacredness of every life aspect. This concept is echoed in the notion that each moment can unveil an unexpected vision of the divine.
Godric's spiritual struggle is reminiscent of Saint Augustine’s reflections in his Confessions, as he grapples with guilt and penitence, donning an iron vest and immersing himself in freezing waters for atonement. Despite these somber practices, Godric rejects Elric’s nihilistic view, finding humor and irony in his spiritual calling. His life embodies a paradoxical ministry of reconciliation, acknowledging the universal yearning for spiritual fulfillment. Buechner captures this paradox in his writings, marveling at divine grace’s mysterious workings through flawed humanity.
Suggested Readings and Further Study
- Allen, Victoria S. Listening to Life: Psychology and Spirituality in the Writings of Frederick Buechner. This work delves into the therapeutic aspects of Buechner's writing, particularly in "Godric," exploring how memory and self-reflection facilitate healing and forgiveness.
- Buechner, Frederick. “An Interview with Frederick Buechner: Ordained to Write.” This interview offers insight into Buechner's perspective on integrating his Christian faith and literary craft.
- McCoy, Marjorie Casebier, with Charles S. McCoy. Frederick Buechner: Novelist/Theologian of the Lost and Found. This text examines overarching themes in Buechner’s work, such as divine presence in human history, grace, and redemption.
- Yaconelli, Mike, ed. The Door Interviews. A collection of interviews that delve into Buechner's religious views, his conversion, and his recognition of God's pervasive grace.