Poetry · Chapter
XII: Mary Magdalene explained
The poem traces Mary Magdalene's journey from a state of torment and madness to redemption and purpose through her encounter with Jesus.
What happens
The poem traces Mary Magdalene's journey from a state of torment and madness to redemption and purpose through her encounter with Jesus. It depicts her initial suffering, her healing by Christ, her presence at the crucifixion, and her role as the first witness to the resurrection, culminating in her commission to proclaim the good news.
Themes in this chapter
Redemption and Grace
Mary's transformation from a state of madness and demonic possession to wholeness and apostolic mission exemplifies redemption through divine grace.
Suffering and Purification
Her torment, the 'pang of death,' and her sharing in Christ's 'awful doom' serve as a purification that leads to new life and purpose.
Characters to notice
- Mary Magdalene
The central figure, depicted as tormented by demons and madness, then healed by Christ, present at the crucifixion, and first to witness the resurrection.
- Jesus Christ
The divine healer who touches Mary, brings sunrise to her soul, dies on the cross, and appears to her after the resurrection, calling her by name.
- God
Referenced as the Father to whom Jesus ascends and whose heart is the eternal dwelling place for Mary.
Key passages
“With wandering eyes and aimless zeal, She hither, thither, goes; Her speech, her motions, all reveal A mind without repose.”
Her restless and erratic behavior—wandering eyes, purposeless energy, and agitated movements—betrays a mind that cannot find peace.
Describes Mary's initial state of mental and spiritual turmoil.
“That man did touch thee! Eyes divine Make sunrise in thy soul; Thou seëst love in order shine:— His health hath made thee whole!”
The touch of that man—Jesus—brings divine light into your soul, revealing love's perfect order and restoring you to health.
The moment of healing and transformation through Christ's touch.
“Run, Mary! lift thy heavenly voice; Cry, cry, and heed not how; Make all the new-risen world rejoice— Its first apostle thou!”
Hurry, Mary, and proclaim the resurrection with your heavenly voice; shout without concern for how it sounds, and make the whole world celebrate—you are the first apostle of the risen Christ!
Mary's commissioning as the first witness and messenger of the resurrection.