Ivan Kramskoy. Christ in the Desert. 1872
I already talked here about the “Grand Inquisitor”. It’s no doubts one of the best writings ever. All the book “Bratia Karamazov” (Brother’s Karamazov) is in fact one of the best reflections about human being.
The Grand Inquisitor refers to chapter of the book, that involves a supposed poem writen by Ivan Karamazov.
It regards a imaginary return of Christ in XVth century Sevilha. Christ comes again to show to the few who believe that he truly loves them, to show them that they are in the right way.
He is arrested by the Inquisition and his led to the figure of the Grand Inquisitor. He then is accused of making the 3 most worst crimes against humanity ever, all in the same episode: The Temptations in the Desert.
Miracle, mystery and authority, all is refused.
By refusing the spirit offers, Christ condemns all the human beeings. Condemnation to and through freedom.
A big price which we pay everyday in each of our living momments.
I have a big love for the reflexions of young Ivan Karamazov, namely both chapter’s “Rebellion” and “The Grand Inquisitor” (not to mention the alucination with the Devil).
You can find the whole book here. You can directly go to these chapters ("Rebellion", "The Grand Inquisitor".
Its freedom who gives us the biggest joy, but it’s also through freedom that we find the deepest pain. The freedom of one can represent the pain of the other.
Because of that, each of our acts (as in the romance) has a consequence.
So maybe selfishness is the root of evil!? It really might be.
Was Christ selfish when he didn't accept the offers?
Please take in notice that my Christ here is Ivan's Karamazov Christ: a literary character.
A reflection about "The Great Inquisitor" here
