Silence: Picador Classic Paperback – 7 September 2015

Doubtlessly a classic, the novel Silence intrigues its readers as they embark on a journey that strongly questions faith and belief until they yield.

Excellent

1966 Japanese classic, set in 17th century Nagasaki, where Samurai rule has made Christianity an offence punishable by death. The (fictional) Portugese priest, Father Sebastian Rodrigues, is moved at the plight of the first Catholic congregations, and makes the journey out to assist them.The Japan he finds is a grim place, the people living at subsistence level, and the tortures devised for the infidels gruesome...The title comes from the priest's increasing fear that God does not hear his people's sufferingsAt times, Rodrigues is a Christ figure, riding threough crowds on a horse to meet with the chief official - an apparently erudite and charming man, yet one who utilises savage punishments - in a concerted effort to make him give up his faith, he introduces the priest to apostate Father Ferreira.. .But we see him also as a Judas, one who ultimately sells out on his religion, - yet for reasons of love and compassion rather than fear or selfishness.Thought-provoking work. also historically very interesting.

The Edo feudal government in the 17th century Japan prohibits Christianism after the previous governments encouraged and supported.So, Christians and missionaries are tortured and killed to be forcibly abandon their beliefs.This story is a disastrous and sad struggle of Poltogese missionary captured by the government.Sad...Freedom, belief, life, andRegret ...