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Religion In Margaret Atwood's Oryx And Crake

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What is religion? Why is mankind addicted to this conception unlike other species? Why does humanity submit to one, or multiple super powerful entities? Is there a neurological component that drives humans or is part of the societal construction? Such overwhelming questions have subjective answers due to varying descriptions of entities and research. However, the general consensus can compromise that indeed religion is derived from humanity. The practice of worship, in simpler terms, implements an objective to all of societies. Not only does it provide the satisfaction of mankind’s inception but it provides them a purpose. That purpose- that motivation- can range from following the 10 Commandments to spreading peace and love. The human mind is engineered to be curious and determine their justification for existence. Yet, even more imperative, religion is detrimental for all functioning societies. Even the biologically modified Crakers are not resistant to this conception in Margaret Atwood’s post apocalyptic dystopian novel Oryx and Crake. This cult classic’s plot revolves around one man’s plan to eradicate humanity and be replaced with primitive yet flawless human-like creatures called Crakers. These advanced creatures possess traits that mimic primal neanderthals, including religion. Unbeknownst to Crake’s creations, they practice …show more content…

As a crude response, Crake replies“You don’t get it. That stuff’s been edited out”’(361). Religious scholar Suel refutes Crake’s argument when he brings up, “Hans Mol described the chief function of religion as the stabilization of individual and group identity”(558).Religion serves as a fundamental stabilization for groups, in order for the Crakers to prosper in the world, they must adapt some form of faith as their foundation- not even eradicating religion in their minds will

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In a world where religion represents a crucial role in the lives of countless people, there is no doubt that it influences an individual’s daily decisions. There are numerous religions that have been created, although the most significant ones have been widely practiced for centuries. Each of the world’s major religions have distinctions that set them apart from others. Consequently, these distinctions cause turmoil between religions due to individual biased opinion for their God. Followers of a religion suppose that their faith is designated as the most favorable and true religion of all practices.

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In the futuristic novel, Oryx and Crake, Margaret Atwood uses symbolism effectively to shape and reinforce the theme of renaming. Atwood tells a story of a dystopian society in which the idea of change becomes a pivotal role in the overall look of the story. Jimmy, the protagonist retells a story of how he got to where he is, a world full of humanoid robots and him possibly being the only man alive. Through the small yet significant changes Jimmy and his closest friend undergo throughout the story, it is transparent that although change can have a perfect root, static change is the most detestable trait one can have. Using the literary device of symbolism, Margaret Atwood reinforces the theme of renaming throughout the book by emphasizing

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