The Holy War (Cambridge Companions to Literature)

John Bunyan may have authored the most influential book in the English language (other than the Bible) when he penned Pilgrim?s Progress, but he also wrote another dramatic allegorical novel ? The Holy War. In this second classic, Bunyan?s readers experience the struggles of the city of Mansoul as a fierce battle rages to take control of it. Wrapped into this knife-edge drama is much truth about how the struggles of our souls run parallel to those of the wretched inhabitants of Mansoul. The righteous and honorable ruler Shaddai and his son Immanuel rule Mansoul with justice and equity. But the ruler of darkness - Prince Diabolus - has other plans. With his evil captains and their battalions Diabolus plots the fall and destruction of the once happy city. The fall of Captain Resistance is followed by numerous battles and the eventual fall of Lord Innocency, until the city is lost. So goes a story of treachery and deceit, foolishness and pride, forgiveness and final redemption. The good news is that there is a happy ending, for this book, as Bunyan intended, is ultimately the story of a sinner saved from ruin by the grace of God.