Helpful Score: 3
This eloquent novel is both emotional powerful and intellectually engaging. In a flawless fusion of treatment and theme, Silence tells the story of a seventeenth-century Portuguese priest in Japan during the intense persecution of Japanese Christians. Characters are able to touch on archetypes without losing the complexity and depth that makes them believably human.
A somewhat disturbing view of the attempts of Roman Catholic missionaries to convert Japan to Catholic Christianity. I read this on recommendation of Philip Yancy in "Soul Survivor". The moral dilemma presented as the theme of the novel is harrowing. I was somewhat taken back by the "Catholic" references especially about priesthood, confession and the church hierarchy. My own past familiarity with these doctrinal differences to my current Christian beliefs detracted from fully being able to empathize with the characters being tormented by their persecutors. Japan, to this day, is but one percent (1%) Christian. This was a haunting portrayal of the possibility of persecution and death that any Christian might face at any time. Well worth reading.
This was a very interesting read and I found Endo to be a wonderful writer. The events of the story will stay with you long after you have finished the novel. It's a very disturbing book, especially on the subjects of persecution, sacrifice, and ultimately apostasy. I would recommend this book for anyone who considers themselves Christian and anyone considering mission work.
