Accepting Quote by Halldór Laxness
“Bjartur declared that he had never denied that there was much that was strange in nature. "I consider that there's nothing wrong in believing in elves even though their names aren't on the parish register," he said. "It hurts no one, yes and even does you good rather than harm; but to believe in ghosts and ghouls-that I contend is nothing but the remains of popery and hardly fit for a Christian to give even a moment's consideration." He did his utmost to persuade the women to accept his views on these matters.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Independent People, 1946
He argues that believing in harmless folklore is benign, but endorses rational Christian doctrine over superstition.
In simple terms: Folklore is harmless, yet rational belief is preferred.
Key Takeaway
Balance respect for tradition with critical thinking.
Themes
faith
folklore
reason
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
religious
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- religious discussion
- cultural preservation
Key Concepts
mythology
Christian doctrine
Questions to Reflect On
- What role does myth play in your life?
- How do you reconcile faith and folklore?
A Different Perspective
Dismissal of folklore may ignore cultural value.
