Monday, January 19, 2009

Contrast For The Good

Protagonists are the leaders of any type of story. They are protagonists for being outstanding from the rest, or being different, just having characteristics that the other characters don’t have. Njal and Jesus are protagonists of a story to their life. This indicates that both of their lives were very important, because they made them this way, for the actions they took, and the opportunities they resolved. Although their differences in time relates to the culture, and creates difference in some aspects, but still the similarities are surprising to what they should be.

These two men constantly asked for advice. Therefore you deduct they are helpful and their advice is wise and comprehensive. Njal was constantly asked for help, and who reached him always appreciated in what he did for them. Olaf refers to Njal this way, “It’s worth a lot to have Njal standing by you with good advice.” (pg. 111). Jesus then is known for his miracles and his kindness towards everyone, “The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. And great multitudes were gathered together unto him…” (Matthew 13, 1-2). They are also in journey, their life or their search for the future can be said this way. Jesus is has knowledge of his destiny of his purpose, therefore he is on a path he has to complete to reach this purpose, his journey is to die for humanity. “And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” (Luke 1, 30-33). Njal instead is on a journey to succeeding his family and advising his close ones, in a way his purpose becomes the one of others. Another resemblance Njal and Jesus share is their relationship with what they recognized as their friends. On a conversation Gunnar and Njal were having, Njal said to Gunnar, “I’ll stand by you loyally as long as I live.” (pg. 120). They were two friends which shared a bond that formed a unique friendship. The case was similar with Jesus and his disciples, “Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter…” (John 21, 7). Women also were an important aspect for men, they were given great significance by the protagonists. At the beginning of the saga, Unn was recommending Gunnar to seek him for the problem they had fallen into and he does as she says, “Go to Njal at Bergthorshvol-he’ll be able to come up with a plan, and besides, he’s a great friend of yours.” (pg. 36). For Jesus Mary and Mary Magdalene are fundamental in his life. They are not only mentioned by him but by the gospels, “And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene…” (Luke 8, 2).

Jesus and Njal were as well contrasting men. Jesus believes in turning the other cheek, as mention in the bible. Njal instead follows the theory of an eye for an eye. Their advices to others reflect in this. Jesus advice is leading towards a peaceful side, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14, 27). Njal helps people many times by involving himself in warlike events, “summon your own neighbors to the scene of the fight…” (pg.110). Also Jesus prospects towards a more spiritual journey and as well his advice, “And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? “ (Luke 24, 38). Instead Njal in several cases provides his own material things to help someone, “I’ll give him some supplies.” (pg.80).



No comments: