Assisi: Theme; The hypocrisy of the Church
Assisi: Theme; The hypocrisy of the Church
‘Assisi’: Theme - The Hypocrisy of the Church
Metaphor
- MacCaig utilises the figure of the dwarf outside the church to symbolize the ignored and neglected in society.
- This symbol is powerfully juxtaposed against the grand, opulent church, hinting at an inherent hypocrisy within the church.
Imagery
- The Church is described as built “In honour of St Francis” who was known for his simplicity and dedication to the poor. The dwarf, however, is turned away, indicating a misalignment between the church’s principles and actions.
- “Three tiers” of the church may be seen as a metaphor for the hierarchy within the Church - with the most vulnerable offered no place.
Language
- MacCaig’s use of stark, contrasting language to describe the grandeur of the church versus the deformities of the dwarf further underlines the hypocrisy and superficiality of the Church.
- Repetition of the word “outside” in relation to the dwarf, emphasizes his exclusion and marginalization by the institution supposed to protect him.
Irony
- It is ironic that the tourists “understood the explanation and the clever way the masons”, appreciating only the superficial art and architecture, rather than recognising the living symbol of suffering ignored by the Church.
- MacCaig himself doesn’t enter the Church, an ironic gesture that reinforces the gap between professed values and real-life actions within the Church.
Summary
- Through powerful symbolism, vivid imagery, and pointed irony, ‘Assisi’ sharply critiques the hypocrisy within the church. By contrasting the opulence of the church and its neglect of a disabled beggar, MacCaig underlines the disparity between the church’s professed values and its actual humane practice.