Doubt: A Parable Essay Questions

Why are Father Flynn's fingernails repeatedly mentioned?

Both Sister James and Sister Aloysius seem repulsed at the priest's decision to keep his fingernails long. Their reactions indicate that it is atypical for a grown man—let alone a priest—to make daring grooming and aesthetic choices. This detail may subtly hint at Father Flynn's repressed femininity. However, it may also indicate Father Flynn's individualism and his entitlement to make choices that deviate from what is considered the norm.

How does Donald's mother react to Sister Aloysius' claims about Father Flynn and her son?

Mrs. Miller listens to Sister Aloysius's claim that Donald is being taken advantage of by Father Flynn. However, she begs for Sister Aloysius to wait until June so that Donald does not have to leave school and thus jeopardize his future. She explains that Donald is beaten by his father because he suspects that his son is gay. This exchange reveals the burdens placed on Mrs. Miller and the lengths she will go to protect her son.

How does Father Flynn's opening sermon set the precedence for the events that transpire throughout the film?

As the title suggests, doubt is the film's central theme. Father Flynn's opening sermon about the nature of doubt first prompts Sister Aloysius to "doubt" the priest's actions and intentions. While Father Flynn urges the congregation to accept doubt and its inevitable role in human life, Sister Aloysius reacts and seeks to personify its contrary—certainty. The film draws attention to the doubt that dominated American society in 1964, but it also highlights Father Flynn's initial message: doubt is an inevitable aspect of the human experience.

How does the film provide commentary on structural/institutional power?

Throughout the film, we are continuously confronted with the idea of power and powerlessness. As we examine the characters that appear in the film, we become aware that no one is fully "dominant" or "powerful." In examining power, we become more aware of the dynamics within the Catholic church. As the principal of the parish school, Sister Aloysius wields power over her students and faculty. She is feared by many, and others approach her trepidatiously. However, despite Sister Aloysius' desire to personify power, we see that she is often made to feel powerless. During her discussions with Father Flynn, she is continuously reminded of the limits to her power placed upon her as a woman within the Catholic church.

How does the film portray progress and tradition?

Sister Aloysius and Father Flynn personify tradition and progress, respectively. While Sister Aloysius aims to maintain the traditional style of the annual Christmas Pageant, Father Flynn suggests that they incorporate secular songs into the program. While Sister Aloysius believes that sermons should stick to the scripture, Father Flynn uses his platform to preach his opinion on humanistic values and current events. However, as the audience, we are prompted to search for a middle ground between these two opposing viewpoints. How can traditions be honored and adapted without being disregarded? How can religious leaders encourage dialogue and debate without throwing away rituals that inspire belief?