After reading · Section 19

Section 19Strength for the Weak

Summary

Beside a life-giving river, Christiana’s daughters-in-law entrust their young children to a shepherd’s care at the King’s expense. At Bypath Meadow, Great-heart, Honest, and Christiana’s sons attack Doubting Castle, kill Giant Despair and Diffidence, free Despondency and Much-afraid, and demolish the fortress. An inscription warns that sin could build it again.

The Shepherds welcome the weakest pilgrims first, provide suitable food, and show the company instructive sights. Mercy receives a looking-glass that reveals both its viewer and the Prince of Pilgrims. Later they find Valiant-for-truth wounded after defeating Wild-head, Inconsiderate, and Pragmatic. He explains that Tell-true’s report of Christian overcame his family’s discouraging stories. Great-heart praises his “Jerusalem blade,” and the company dresses his wounds before Valiant sings of steadfast pilgrimage.

Who’s who

• Despondency and Much-afraid — Father and daughter freed from Doubting Castle.
• The Shepherds — Guardians who welcome, nourish, teach, and equip the company.
• Valiant-for-truth — A battle-worn pilgrim from Dark-land.
• Wild-head, Inconsiderate, and Pragmatic — Three attackers who try to force Valiant from pilgrimage.
• Tell-true — The witness whose report persuaded Valiant to begin.