Who is the author of 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord'?

The author of 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord' is Peter Matthiessen.

What are the main themes in 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord'?

The main themes in 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord' include Cultural Studies, Contemporary Fiction, Literature.

What genre is 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord'?

'At Play in the Fields of the Lord' is categorized as Literature.

What is the central theme of 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord'?

The central theme of 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord' by Peter Matthiessen revolves around the clash of cultures, the complexities of colonialism, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. The novel explores the impact of Western intervention on indigenous peoples and their environments, delving into deep questions of faith, spirituality, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.

How do the characters in the book respond to the cultural conflicts they encounter?

In 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord,' the characters encounter significant cultural conflicts as they interact with the indigenous people of the Amazon. Their responses vary widely, reflecting their backgrounds and motivations: The missionaries, like Father Duplantier, are torn between their religious zeal and the realization of the complexities of the native culture. Some try to convert the tribes while grappling with the moral implications of their actions. The adventurer, Neil, represents a more cynical view, as he becomes increasingly disillusioned by both the missionaries and the corporate interests that exploit the land. His journey reflects a conflict between exploitation and genuine understanding of the indigenous peoples. The indigenous characters, in turn, respond with a mixture of resistance and adaptation. They maintain their cultural identities while confronting the intrusion of outside forces, often with a sense of agency and resilience. Overall, the novel portrays a range of responses from fascination and respect to manipulation and disdain, illustrating the deep and often painful intersections of culture, faith, and profit.

In what ways does Peter Matthiessen explore the relationship between nature and civilization in the novel?

In 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord' by Peter Matthiessen, the exploration of the relationship between nature and civilization is central to the narrative. Matthiessen contrasts the pristine and almost spiritual connection that the indigenous people have with the Amazon rainforest against the encroachment of Western civilization, represented by missionaries, adventurers, and exploiters seeking to impose their values upon the land and its inhabitants. Nature as a Character: The Amazon rainforest is depicted with a vivid, almost sentient presence, highlighting the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Matthiessen uses lush descriptions to evoke the wilderness, portraying it as a vital force that is integral to the lives of the native characters while also serving as a backdrop to the destructive tendencies of civilization. Clash of Values: The novel illustrates the stark contrast between the spiritual connection to nature exhibited by the indigenous tribes and the utilitarian, often destructive mindset of outsiders. The missionaries, who come to convert the natives, are depicted as imposing their beliefs and disrupting the inherent harmony of the indigenous way of life. Consequences of Colonization: Matthiessen examines the repercussions of colonization and the impact of civilization on nature. The exploitation of the land for resources is portrayed as a violence not just against the indigenous people but against the Earth itself. This theme unfolds through various characters’ interactions with both the land and the natives, showcasing the often tragic results of cultural imposition. Philosophical Reflection: The narrative also delves into philosophical reflections on humanity's place within the natural world. Characters wrestle with their identities and ethics in relation to both the land and their own civilization, leading to a deeper understanding (or misunderstanding) of the interconnectedness of life. Through these elements, Matthiessen encourages readers to reflect on the balance between nature and civilization, the tension created by their intersection, and ultimately, the need to respect and preserve the natural world.

What role does religion play in the lives of the characters in 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord'?

In 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord', religion plays a significant role in shaping the lives, motivations, and conflicts of the characters. The novel explores the interaction between various religious beliefs and the impact they have on the individuals involved. Some characters are driven by a profound commitment to their faith, seeking to convert indigenous peoples or bring about a sense of moral order in the untamed jungle. For example, the missionaries represent a Western approach to religion, viewing their mission as a divine mandate to save souls. In contrast, the indigenous characters maintain their own spiritual beliefs, which often clash with the intentions of the missionaries. The novel also delves into the personal struggles of characters grappling with their faith, ethical dilemmas, and the consequences of imposing religious beliefs on others. This interplay of faith, culture, and morality highlights the complexities of religious influence in a diverse and changing world. Ultimately, religion acts as both a source of hope and conflict, revealing the profound impact it has on the characters' identities and their relationships with one another.

How does the setting in the Amazon rainforest influence the story and its characters?

The setting of the Amazon rainforest in 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord' profoundly influences both the narrative and the characters. It serves as a backdrop for the exploration of cultural conflict, spirituality, and the clash between civilization and nature. Isolation and Extremes: The vast, lush, and often inhospitable environment of the Amazon creates a sense of isolation for the characters. This isolation forces them to confront their inner demons and beliefs, often leading to a transformation in their perspectives on life, faith, and morality. Impact on Characters' Journeys: Characters such as the missionaries and the indigenous people are heavily shaped by the rainforest. The missionaries' attempts to convert the native tribes highlight themes of cultural misunderstanding and the imposition of foreign values on indigenous societies. For characters like the mercenary and the anthropologist, the rainforest becomes a place of profound personal reflection and inner conflict. Symbolism: The Amazon rainforest symbolizes both the beauty and terror of nature, reflecting the characters' struggles and the consequences of their actions. It becomes a character in its own right, representing the unknown and the primal forces of life, which challenge the characters’ beliefs and decisions. Survival and Adaptation: The challenges of surviving in such an intense environment lead to moments of growth and revelation for many characters. They must adapt to their surroundings, which forces them to reassess their values and priorities, often revealing deeper truths about themselves and humanity. Conflict: The rainforest setting also embodies the conflict between the natural world and human encroachment, raising ethical questions about exploitation, conservation, and the impact of Western civilization on indigenous cultures.

At Play in the Fields of the Lord

'At Play in the Fields of the Lord' follows a group of Westerners as they navigate the complexities of life among an indigenous tribe in the Amazon rainforest. The narrative intertwines themes of faith, cultural conflict, and the search for redemption in a land filled with both beauty and danger. As the characters grapple with their own belief systems, the lush yet unforgiving jungle serves as a backdrop for profound transformation. Can they truly understand a world so different from their own? This thought-provoking novel challenges readers to consider the implications of their choices in unfamiliar territories.

By Peter Matthiessen

Published: 1991

""To seek the impossible is the greatest challenge of life, for it compels us to confront both the beauty and the brutality of the world around us.""

Literature Contemporary Fiction Cultural Studies

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What Readers Say About This Book

In a malarial outpost in the South American rain forest, two misplaced gringos converge and clash in this novel from the National Book Award-winning author. Martin Quarrier has come to convert the elusive Niaruna Indians to his brand of Christianity. Lewis Moon, a stateless mercenary who is himself part Indian, has come to kill them on the behalf of the local comandante. Out of this struggle Peter Matthiessen creates an electrifying moral thriller—adapted into a movie starring John Lithgow, Kathy Bates, and Tom Waits. A novel of Conradian richness, At Play in the Fields of the Lord explores both the varieties of spiritual experience and the politics of cultural genocide.

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Key Points from At Play in the Fields of the Lord

In "At Play in the Fields of the Lord," the complex plot development is exemplified through the interweaving narratives of various characters, such as the missionary, the American couple, and the indigenous tribe inhabitants. Each of these characters embarks on a personal journey that reflects their fears, aspirations, and moral conflicts surrounding their interactions with the indigenous culture. For instance, the missionaries, like the character Father Duchemin, are driven by a fervent desire to convert the tribe but are challenged by their own doubts and the ethical implications of imposing their beliefs. This internal struggle is poignantly depicted as they confront their preconceived notions of ‘civilization’ versus the tribe’s way of life, paving the way for a climactic moment where their convictions are put to the test. The significance of this plot complexity lies in its ability to reveal the multidimensionality of faith and cultural conflicts, questioning the righteousness of colonial missions. It reflects broader themes of colonialism, cultural imperialism, and moral relativism, ultimately leading to a devastating confrontation that forces the characters to grapple with the consequences of their actions and beliefs, embodying the novel’s exploration of human interaction with the Other.

About the Author

Peter Matthiessen

Peter Matthiessen (1927-2014) was an acclaimed American author, naturalist, and activist known for his profound contributions to literature and conservation. His notable works include 'The Snow Leopard,' which reflects his journey through the Himalayas and explores themes of spirituality and the natural world, and 'Shadow Country,' a reimagining of the life of the infamous South Florida outlaw Edgar Watson. Matthiessen's writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose, keen observation, and deep ecological awareness, often blending fiction with non-fiction elements to convey complex themes of nature, humanity, and the interconnectedness of life.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Peter Matthiessen
Published: December 1991
Publisher: Vintage
ISBN: 0679737413
Language: English
Pages: 387
Genres: Cultural StudiesContemporary FictionLiterature

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“"To seek the impossible is the greatest challenge of life, for it compels us to confront both the beauty and the brutality of the world around us."”

At Play in the Fields of the Lord

By Peter Matthiessen

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At Play in the Fields of the Lord

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