Read the passage.
Pilgrim's Progress, by John Bunyan (1628-1688), is perhaps the
best-known allegory in English. Part I tells of the journey of a
man named Christian as he seeks salvation through the
Christian religion. Part II tells of the journey of his wife and
children to the same goal.
Pilgrim's Progress
by John Bunyan
Summary of Part I
Christian, who lives in the City of Destruction, foresees that the
city will be destroyed by God for its sinfulness. A man named
Evangelist advises Christian to flee and make his way to the
Celestial City-that is, Heaven. Christian sets off, carrying a
heavy burden of past sins on his back, and a series of trials and
adventures begins. He falls into a bog called the Slough of
Despond-the bog of despair. After nearly drowning because of
At the end of Part I, Ignorance is cast into Hell even though he
has crossed the river to the gate of the Celestial City.
What effect did author John Bunyan most likely intend this
allegorical event to have?
It would warn readers that there is no sure way to be
saved, even in the Celestial City.
It would encourage readers to fight against sin in
their lives while maintaining their faith.
It would remind readers that the message of the
allegory is only an opinion.
It would please readers who do not consider
themselves ignorant.