Poetry · Chapter
One of the Redeemed explained
Saint Peter encounters the soul of Ernest Renan at the Gates of Heaven.
What happens
Saint Peter encounters the soul of Ernest Renan at the Gates of Heaven. Renan, a French literary master and infidel, is welcomed by Peter despite his reputation. A self-righteous preacher from San Francisco named Mansfield, who had denounced Renan, is revealed to be in Heaven only because the Devil refused him. Renan decides to try his luck with the Devil instead.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Corruption
The preacher Mansfield, who condemns Renan as a rake and drunkard, is himself in Heaven only because the Devil refused him, highlighting religious hypocrisy.
Deception and Self-Deception
Renan claims his life was irreproachable, while Mansfield's holy demeanor masks his true nature, illustrating self-deception and deception.
Characters to notice
- Saint Peter
Saint Peter stands at the Gate, greets Renan, and dismisses the preacher Mansfield's accusations.
- Unknown
The narrator describes the scene and the characters' actions and dialogue.
- Death
Death is mentioned as having felled Renan's body.
Key passages
“Good morning, Peter.”
Renan greets Saint Peter cheerfully.
Renan's casual greeting shows his familiarity and lack of fear.
“I’m somewhat famous, too, I grieve to tell, As controversialist and infidel.”
Renan admits he is known as a controversial figure and an unbeliever.
Renan acknowledges his reputation as an infidel.
“Just walk right in and make yourself at home. And if he pecks at you I’ll cut his comb.”
Saint Peter welcomes Renan and promises to protect him from Mansfield's attacks.
Peter dismisses Mansfield's accusations and assures Renan of his welcome.
“Thank you, monsieur—I’ll see if he’ll have me.”
Renan thanks Peter and decides to go to Hell instead.
Renan chooses to seek the Devil rather than stay in Heaven with the hypocritical preacher.