Faith, Half Faith and no Faith at All

Name: Faith, Half Faith and no Faith at All
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

Three men embark on a pilgrimage: a priest, a virtuous person, and an old rover. The priest discusses faith, asserting that nature provides proof of religion, while the virtuous person claims he needs no such evidence. Their conversation reveals differing perspectives on faith, with the priest relying on traditional beliefs and the virtuous person emphasizing moral conviction. As they travel, they encounter a peacock, which sings beautifully, challenging the priest's assertions. The virtuous person remains steadfast in his belief that truth will prevail, regardless of the peacock's song. The priest, frustrated, dismisses the peacock and continues to seek validation for his faith. They soon arrive at a shrine where a Fakeer performs miracles. The priest sees this as a true testament to faith, while the virtuous person remains skeptical, asserting that he believes in the inherent goodness of rightness rather than in miraculous acts. The Fakeer, angered by the virtuous person's dismissal, inadvertently reveals his trickery, further solidifying the virtuous person's stance. As they continue, news arrives that darkness threatens the Heavenly Mansions, and the virtuous person feels deceived. The priest, too, is disheartened, leading to a moment of doubt. The virtuous person contemplates making a pact with evil, while the rover expresses his commitment to die with Odin, showcasing a contrast between resignation and unwavering loyalty. The narrative explores themes of faith, doubt, and the nature of belief, illustrating the complexities of human conviction in the face of adversity. Each character embodies different attitudes toward faith: the priest clings to tradition, the virtuous person champions moral integrity, and the rover represents steadfast loyalty. The story ultimately questions the foundations of faith and the human response to existential crises.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1905 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Allegory, Satire · 703 words

First lines

In the ancient days there went three men upon pilgrimage; one was a priest, and one was a virtuous person, and the third was an old rover with his axe.

As they went, the priest spoke about the grounds of faith.

What this Textopian page supports

Faith, Half Faith and no Faith at All is listed on Textopian as a fable by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1905 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Fable
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1905 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Allegory, Satire, Religious Fiction, Adventure
Length: 703 words
Structure: 1 section, 29 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Work identity for Faith, Half Faith and no Faith at All by Robert Louis Stevenson
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores deep themes of faith, belief, and morality through dialogue and character interactions.
Allegory — The characters represent different perspectives on faith and belief, making the story an allegorical examination of these concepts.
Satire — The text critiques religious dogma and the absurdity of blind faith through humorous and ironic exchanges.
Religious Fiction — The story engages with religious themes and figures, discussing the nature of faith and spirituality.