The Innocents Abroad · Chapter
LVI explained
The pilgrims depart Jerusalem through the Damascus Gate, travel downhill through rugged terrain to Jaffa, and conclude their long pilgrimage.
What happens
The pilgrims depart Jerusalem through the Damascus Gate, travel downhill through rugged terrain to Jaffa, and conclude their long pilgrimage. The narrator reflects on the desolate, cursed landscape of Palestine, contrasting its biblical grandeur with its present barrenness.
Themes in this chapter
The Past vs. the Present
Contrasts the biblical glory of Palestine with its current desolation and ruin.
Home and Belonging
The pilgrims feel glad to see the ship, marking the end of their long journey and a return home.
Religion and Hypocrisy
The narrator critiques Jonah's disobedience and the curse that has withered the Holy Land.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
Reflects on the desolate scenery and the end of the pilgrimage.
- Jack
Caught and bruised by passing camels and asses on the narrow bridle-path.
- Dan
Also caught and bruised by passing freight on the road.
- Young George
Mentioned as Moult, caught and bruised alongside Dan.
Key passages
“Palestine is desolate and unlovely. And why should it be otherwise? Can the curse of the Deity beautify a land?”
The narrator argues that Palestine's barrenness is a result of divine curse, making it unfit for beauty.
Reflects the theme of religious curse and the land's decay.
“The long pilgrimage was ended, and somehow we seemed to feel glad of it.”
The travelers felt relief and happiness at the conclusion of their journey.
Highlights the emotional closure of the pilgrimage.