Flannery O’Connor, a Southern Gothic writer, is celebrated for her profound exploration of human nature, sin, and redemption through grotesque and often shocking narratives. “Revelation,” a short story first published in 1965, encapsulates many of these themes, presenting a narrative rich with moral and religious symbolism. This essay critically examines “Revelation,” exploring its central themes, character development, and literary techniques, supported by academic theory and critical perspectives.
Summary of “Revelation”
“Revelation” centers on Mrs. Ruby Turpin, a self-righteous, middle-aged woman who considers herself morally and socially superior to others. The story takes place in a doctor’s waiting room, where Mrs. Turpin engages in a conversation with other patients and silently judges them based on her rigid social hierarchy. Her complacency is shattered when a young woman, Mary Grace, attacks her, calling her an “old wart hog from hell.” This confrontation leads to a revelatory vision, where Mrs. Turpin sees a procession of souls ascending to heaven, challenging her notions of worth and salvation.
Themes in “Revelation”
Grace and Redemption
A recurring theme in O’Connor’s work is the concept of grace—divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration and sanctification. In “Revelation,” Mrs. Turpin’s self-assured worldview is disrupted by a violent encounter that serves as a moment of grace. According to Christian theology, grace often comes through suffering and humility, a notion embodied in Mrs. Turpin’s experience. Her revelation in the story’s climax, where she envisions a heavenly procession that includes those she deems inferior, suggests the universality of grace and the potential for redemption.
Judgment and Hypocrisy
Mrs. Turpin epitomizes judgment and hypocrisy, as she constantly assesses the worth of others based on superficial criteria such as race, class, and appearance. Her internal monologue reveals her deep-seated prejudices and self-righteousness. The attack by Mary Grace, whose name itself symbolizes divine intervention, acts as a catalyst for Mrs. Turpin’s self-examination. The story critiques the ease with which individuals judge others while being blind to their own flaws, highlighting the hypocrisy inherent in such judgments.
Social Class and Racism
Set in the American South during the mid-20th century, “Revelation” addresses issues of social class and racism. Mrs. Turpin’s sense of superiority is deeply entwined with her social status and racial prejudices. She categorizes people into a rigid hierarchy, placing herself and her husband near the top due to their perceived moral and economic standing. This hierarchical thinking is challenged by the revelation, suggesting that true worth is not determined by social constructs but by divine judgment.
Character Analysis
Mrs. Ruby Turpin
Mrs. Turpin is a complex character whose journey from complacency to self-awareness forms the crux of the narrative. Initially, she is portrayed as a smug, self-satisfied woman, confident in her moral and social superiority. Her constant need to categorize and judge others reveals her deep insecurity and need for validation. The encounter with Mary Grace forces her to confront the ugliness within herself, leading to a moment of epiphany. The story leaves her fate ambiguous, but the revelation hints at the possibility of spiritual awakening and transformation.
Mary Grace
Mary Grace, whose name signifies divine grace, serves as the story’s agent of revelation. Her violent outburst and subsequent condemnation of Mrs. Turpin as an “old wart hog from hell” are shocking but necessary to pierce Mrs. Turpin’s defenses. Mary Grace’s role is to disrupt the superficial harmony of the waiting room and force a moment of self-recognition in Mrs. Turpin. Her character embodies the unpredictable and often painful nature of grace.
Literary Devices and Techniques
Symbolism
O’Connor employs rich symbolism throughout “Revelation.” The waiting room represents a microcosm of society, where various social classes and races intersect. The attack by Mary Grace is symbolic of divine intervention, shattering Mrs. Turpin’s delusions of superiority. The final vision of the procession to heaven symbolizes the leveling of human distinctions in the face of divine judgment.
Irony
Irony is a pervasive element in “Revelation.” Mrs. Turpin’s name itself is ironic, as “Ruby” suggests a precious stone, yet her character is initially far from virtuous. Her self-perceived righteousness is constantly undermined by her thoughts and actions. The ultimate irony lies in her revelation, where those she considered inferior are seen ascending to heaven ahead of her, challenging her preconceived notions of worth and salvation.
Narrative Style
O’Connor’s narrative style in “Revelation” is marked by its third-person limited point of view, focusing on Mrs. Turpin’s internal thoughts and perceptions. This perspective allows readers to intimately experience her judgments and prejudices, making her moment of revelation more impactful. The use of Southern dialect and idiomatic expressions adds authenticity to the characters and setting.
Academic Perspectives
Theological Criticism
From a theological perspective, “Revelation” can be interpreted as a modern parable about the workings of divine grace. O’Connor, a devout Catholic, often infused her stories with religious symbolism and themes. In this story, Mrs. Turpin’s encounter with Mary Grace and subsequent vision can be seen as an allegory for the Christian concept of salvation, where true repentance and humility are necessary for redemption.
Psychological Criticism
Psychological criticism offers another layer of analysis, focusing on Mrs. Turpin’s mental and emotional state. Her need to judge and categorize others can be understood as a defense mechanism to bolster her fragile ego. The violent encounter with Mary Grace forces her to confront her unconscious biases and insecurities, leading to a moment of self-realization. This psychological journey mirrors the process of individuation described by Carl Jung, where confronting the shadow self is essential for personal growth.
Sociocultural Criticism
Sociocultural criticism examines the story within the context of its setting—the American South during the 1960s. Issues of race, class, and social hierarchy are central to the narrative, reflecting the broader societal tensions of the time. Mrs. Turpin’s attitudes and beliefs are products of her cultural environment, highlighting the pervasive influence of social structures on individual behavior. The story critiques these structures, suggesting the need for a more inclusive and compassionate worldview.
Conclusion
“Revelation” by Flannery O’Connor is a powerful exploration of grace, judgment, and the complexities of human nature. Through the character of Mrs. Turpin, O’Connor delves into themes of hypocrisy, social class, and the transformative potential of divine intervention. The story’s rich symbolism, irony, and narrative style enhance its impact, offering multiple layers of meaning.
By examining “Revelation” through various academic lenses, including theological, psychological, and sociocultural perspectives, we gain a deeper understanding of O’Connor’s critique of human nature and society. The story challenges readers to reflect on their own judgments and preconceptions, inviting them to consider the possibility of grace and redemption in their lives. As such, “Revelation” remains a timeless and relevant work, resonating with contemporary discussions of morality, identity, and the human condition.