Mark Rutherford’s Deliverance · Chapter
Epigraph explained
The chapter opens with three epigraphs: a Latin quote from 'De Imitatione Christi' about teaching without noise or argument, a line from Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' about time passing through the roughest day, and a Greek quote about having dea
What happens
The chapter opens with three epigraphs: a Latin quote from 'De Imitatione Christi' about teaching without noise or argument, a line from Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' about time passing through the roughest day, and a Greek quote about having death as a friend and not fearing shadows.
Themes in this chapter
Death and Mortality
The Greek epigraph directly addresses death as a friend, framing mortality as a source of courage rather than fear.
The Search for Meaning
The Latin epigraph emphasizes silent, non-argumentative teaching, suggesting a quest for truth beyond intellectual conflict.
Characters to notice
- Christ
Quoted indirectly via 'De Imitatione Christi'
- Mark Rutherford
Attributed as the unknown Greek author of the third epigraph
Key passages
“Ego doceo sine strepitu verborum, sine confusione opinionum, sine fastu honoris, sine impugnatione argumentorum.”
I teach without the noise of words, without confusion of opinions, without the pride of honor, without the attack of arguments.
From 'De Imitatione Christi', emphasizing a quiet, humble form of instruction.
“Come what come may, Time and the hour runs through the roughest day.”
Whatever happens, time and the present moment pass through even the most difficult day.
From Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', suggesting endurance through hardship.
“Ἅδην δ’ ἔχων βοηθον οὐ τρέμω σκιάς.”
Having death as my ally, I do not fear shadows.
Attributed to an unknown Greek author, expressing fearlessness in the face of death.