In the two short stories, “Young Goodman Brown,” by Nathaniel Hawthorne and “The Prodigal Son,” by St. Luke there is a parallel struggle of faith. Nathaniel Hawthorne’s short story, “Young Goodman Brown” is a very dark tale of mystery and deceit that surrounds a young man’s test of true faith in his battle against the evil one. In the parable of “The Prodigal Son,” Christ gives the reader a picture of God’s unfailing love toward His children and His ever constant surrounding presence. Faith is tested in each of these stories and the choice becomes to either succumb to this evil world, turn to God, or perhaps something else altogether. Although each story differs in climactic endings, both protagonists in each story reflect the struggle of one’s very soul by their reluctance to fully submit to God. “Young Goodman Brown” In …show more content…
Christ begins this parable with the younger son requesting his inheritance. “And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them.” The younger son feels he is free from his father’s authority and embarks on a journey that is filled with reckless behavior that leaves him homeless. It is in this humble state that he reflects on his faith, asks for forgiveness, and is rewarded a king’s welcome upon his return. This infuriates the older brother who believes he has been a righteous son. His father replies, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.” Christ teaches that no matter the sin, those that believe in Him and have true repentance may always return to the