Essay Questions

Why did Godric, at last, make up his mind to live as a recluse?

Throughout the memoir, it is evident to the reader that Godric is leading an extravagant lifestyle because he is very rich. The way he acquired his wealth is unclear. However, what comes out precisely is that the way the inherited wealth was acquired is fraudulent. Godric lives a sinful life and he does everything he wants because he has money. God is annoyed with his sinful nature and he sends his saints to warn him. Godric obeys the command of God and gives away his fortune and becomes a recluse.

What is the symbolic meaning of the abandonment of Burcwen, Godric's sister?

Burcwen gets attached to her brother, Godric every day and she cannot stand the idea that Godric wants to head to the real world and leave her behind. She tells him that she will kill herself if he leaves. Nevertheless, Godric leaves to the real world without thinking what is going to happen to his sister who threatens to commit suicide. The symbolic meaning of Burcwen is that Godric is a bloodless individual who does not care. The reader notes that Godric is a representation of people who live a carefree life putting their interests first.

Does Godric trust the people around him?

Godric lives a sinful lifestyle and there is no sane and upright person who wants to associate with him. He oppresses people and takes money from the poor. Knowing well his behavior, he is aware that there is no person who can trust him and therefore he finds it difficult to trust anyone. He says, “Five friends I had, and two of them are snakes.” In this quote, he implies that most people are his enemies. However, it is his sinful nature that pushes people away from him.