SOURCE: Boerigter, Tom. “The Rationalization of Faith in San Manuel Bueno, Mártir.” Romance Languages Annual 2 (1999): 457-59.

In the following essay, Boerigter examines the extended dialogues between the characters of Angela and Emmanuel to gain insight into questions of faith and doubt in Saint Emmanuel the Good, Martyr.

Miguel de Unamuno in his novel, San Manuel Bueno, mártir, reveals his central character as a figure torn by existential angst while simultaneously driven by a compassion to serve others. The development of these two characteristics within a single character gives rise in the novel to a consideration of religious faith. The central figure, Don Manuel, at the novel's opening is being processed for beatification in the Catholic Church, thus establishing a backdrop which speaks to the issue of religion. Despite his compassion and good works which will earn him this consideration for canonization, an agonizing sadness fills Don...