Religion in 'La Bas'

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses that the novel 'La Bas' by Joris Huysmans possesses the theme of religion and how experience truly teaches the tenants of belief in a higher power. By exploring historical serial killers, such as Gilles de Rais, one can realize the foundation of satanic beliefs that Durtal finds interesting in his curiosity for human nature. The writer shows that by actively making a choice to avoid dogmatic Christian values, Gilles de Rais has the courage and bravery to explore new avenues of belief systems in the characterization provided by Huysmans in 'La Bas'.

From the Paper:

"In this literary study, the theme of religion is analyzed within the classic novel La Bas (Down There) by Joris Huysmans. By revealing the religious tenants of Satanism and the Roman Catholic Church, the main character, Durtal, must come to terms with his own belief systems. By utilizing the them of religion, one can realize the depth of exploration that Durtal undergoes in his religious ideological transformation. In essence, the theme of religion will be analyzed within the novel La Bas by Joris Huysmans. The symbolism of Christianity in relation to the satanic visions that Durtal has within this novel are a main religious apparatus for his self-realization. In many ways, he doubts the validity of Christ, especially since he finds a reverence in the deviant nature of historical figures."

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