Margaret of Cortona by Edith Wharton

Name: Margaret of Cortona
Author: Edith Wharton

This poem is a dramatic and introspective monologue by Margaret, a former prostitute who has found redemption through her love for Christ and her past lover. The poem explores themes of sin, redemption, love, and the complexities of human relationships. The poem begins with Margaret addressing Fra Paolo, a priest, and recounting her past life as a prostitute. She describes how she was "plucked" from the streets by her lover, who showed her kindness and compassion. Through their relationship, she found a sense of purpose and belonging. However, her lover's death led to her spiritual awakening, and she began to see Christ as her savior. The poem raises questions about the nature of love, sin, and redemption, with Margaret wondering if she would have left her lover for Christ if he had not died. The central theme of the poem is the tension between human love and divine love. Margaret's past lover represented a kind of earthly salvation, while Christ represents a spiritual one. The poem explores the idea that human relationships can be redemptive, but also limited in their ability to save us from our own sinfulness. Throughout the poem, there are allusions to biblical imagery and themes, such as the Garden of Eden, the crucifixion, and the concept of salvation. The language is rich and evocative, with vivid metaphors and symbolism that convey Margaret's emotional and spiritual journey. The final section of the poem is a dramatic address to Christ, in which Margaret implores Him to judge between her past lover and Fra Paolo, the priest. The poem ends with a sense of resolution, as Margaret recognizes that her true salvation comes from Christ, and she kneels in reverence, acknowledging His divine authority. Overall, the poem is a powerful exploration of the human condition, grappling with fundamental questions about love, sin, and redemption.

By Edith Wharton · First published 1922 · Genre: Religious Literature, Historical Fiction, Drama · 2,200 words

First lines

FRA PAOLO, since they say the end is near, And you of all men have the gentlest eyes, Most like our father Francis; since you know How I have toiled and prayed and scourged and striven, Mothered the orphan, waked beside the sick, Gone empty that mine enemy might eat, Given bread for stones in famine years, and channelled With vigilant knees the pavement of this cell, Till I constrained the Christ upon the wall To bend His thorn-crowned Head in mute forgiveness . . .

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Margaret of Cortona is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edith Wharton, dated 1922 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Edith Wharton
Date: 1922 CE
Language: English
Genres: Religious Literature, Historical Fiction, Drama, Romance, Poetry
Length: 2,200 words
Structure: 1 section, 25 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Religious Literature — The text heavily features religious themes, characters, and settings, with a focus on sin, redemption, and the Christian faith.
Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical period, with references to societal norms, practices, and beliefs of that time.
Drama — The text contains dramatic elements, including intense emotional conflicts and moral dilemmas.
Romance — The narrative includes a romantic relationship, with themes of love and loss.