After reading · Section 14

Section 14Lessons of the Interpreter’s House

Summary

The Interpreter’s household joyfully receives Christiana, her sons, and Mercy. He teaches through emblems: a man fixated on a muckrake misses a heavenly crown; a spider takes hold in the best room; animals, flowers, grain, a robin, and a rotten tree illustrate gratitude, patience, contentment, fruitfulness, and the danger of outward religious appearance without inward faithfulness.

At supper Christiana recounts her call and journey, while Mercy explains how Christiana’s testimony moved her to trust and follow. The next morning the pilgrims are bathed, sealed, and clothed in white; each sees the others’ beauty but not her own. The Interpreter equips Great-heart to guide them, and the household sends them away with good wishes. They depart singing the house’s lessons.

Who’s who

• The Interpreter — the master who teaches spiritual truths through visible emblems.
• Innocent — the young woman who welcomes the travellers and leads them to the bath.
• Great-heart — the armed servant appointed as their guide.
• The household — a community that celebrates and prepares the pilgrims.