The Bronze Bow is a novel written by Elizabeth George Speare and was first published in 1961 by publishing house, Houghton Mifflin. The novel coveys major themes of romance, espionage, religion, family and friendship – all of which would appeal to young adults and adults alike.
The main character of Daniel shows what bitterness can make a person become. He is so angered by the injustice done to his father and uncle that he vows to get revenge no matter what it costs. Instead of allowing his heart to open and accept forgiveness, he casts the same light across all Romans. Hence, when his sister, Leah, is embroiled in a romantic entanglement with a reformed young Roman soldier, he is unable to bear it. However, eventually, Daniel sees the light and looks to Jesus, which allows him to forgive both himself and the Romans.
Religion is also a major theme of the story and is mainly expressed through Judaism and Christianity. Some have argued that the book glorified the role of Christianity, through Jesus the savior, while vilifying Judaism. Daniel, a Jew, eventually converts to Christianity because his heart was so filled with hatred and he eventually found his path through the divinity of Jesus. Many argue that this may be a problematic storyline as it propels old tropes about Jews and the savior complex of Christianity.
