# Christine's Idea of Christians explained — Barriers Burned Away

> Chapter companion for Barriers Burned Away by Edward Payson Roe.

## What happens

Christine and her friends prepare for an amateur performance, with Dennis assisting. During a lull, Christine provocatively critiques organized religion, arguing that most Christians follow fashion rather than the Bible's teachings. She declares art, music, fame, and power as her creed. Dennis, though hurt by her unbelief, resolves to counter her views when the opportunity arises.

## Themes in this chapter

### Faith and Doubt

Christine openly questions Christian doctrines and the sincerity of believers, while Dennis is stirred to defend his faith.

### Social Class and Barriers

Dennis, as a servant, is initially excluded from the conversation but feels compelled to speak, highlighting class dynamics.

### Art and Ambition

Christine declares art, music, and fame as her religion, prioritizing creative expression over traditional faith.

## Character check-ins

### Christine Ludolph

Leads the preparation for the entertainment, engages in a theological debate, and expresses her disbelief in Christianity, advocating art as her religion.

### Dennis Fleet

Assists with the stage setup with quiet dignity, is hurt by Christine's unbelief, and resolves to defend his faith.

### Miss Winthrop

Participates in the debate, is challenged by Christine's critique of her religious practice, and becomes visibly distressed.

### Miss Brown

Present during the discussion, bluntly denies belief in hell, and is characterized by Christine as an 'out-and-out sinner.'

### Mr. Ludolph

Mentioned by Christine as an example of an infidel who lives similarly to churchgoing gentlemen.

## Key lines

> Art, music, fame, power.

Christine states that her personal creed is centered on artistic and worldly achievements rather than religious belief.

_This declaration encapsulates her rejection of Christianity in favor of aesthetic and material pursuits._

> I have cut free from it all, and art shall be my religion and the inspiration of my life.

Christine announces that she has abandoned traditional religion and will instead devote herself to art as her guiding principle.

_This line underscores her deliberate choice to replace faith with artistic ambition._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barriers_burned_away_se/chapters/xxi-christine-s-idea-of-christians
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barriers_burned_away_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barriers_burned_away_se/chapters