The Three Temptations of Christ in Light in August Helen Galioto 12th Grade

In William Faulkner's novel Light in August, Joe Christmas is often depicted to be an almost Christ-like figure. There are many thematic similarities between the struggles Christmas goes through during his lifetime, and the struggles braved by Jesus as described by the Bible. One noticeable similarity that can be drawn between the two figures relates to the classic biblical tale of the Three Temptations of Christ. These temptations are in many ways embodied by the relationship that Joe Christmas has with Miss Burden, which is also divided into three segments.

The first temptation of Christ deals with the Devil attempting to lure Christ into turning stone into bread. This temptation takes its form into a seemingly beneficial offering to Christ, however Christ rejects it because he sees it for what it is: a temptation. This idea of temptation through offering comes up in the first phase of Joe Christmas and Miss Burden’s relationship. This relationship finds it beginnings on the night that Miss Burden discovers Joe stealing food in her kitchen, and allows him to have it. This sets the tone that Miss Burden wants to give to Joe in anyway that she can. Joe, however, suspects that in all the ways she gives, she has an ultimate goal...