The Nature of Miracles

Peters explores the nature of miracles in this novel. The characters seem divided between unquestionable faith in miracles and skepticism about miracles and the communication of divine will to human beings. Some of the characters clearly abuse other people's faith in the communication of divine will. Columbanus attempts to gain attention and glory to fulfill his family's high expectations by faking divine communication. Many of his peers and many of the Gwytherin townspeople readily believe his displays of divine ecstasy. Prior Robert abuses the people's faith in miracles and diving communication by blaming Rhisiart's death on Saint Winifred's wrath. He warns the people not to stand in the way of the saint's will, or else they may get a taste of her wrath as well.

The novel's plot suggests that miracles are often a result of blind faith. People see, hear and feel what they...