The Death of Judas by Paul Claudel Summary

Claudel, who wrote in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a controversial figure among both scholars of French literature and Catholic intellectuals. His attitude toward fellow writers was almost hostile and the tone of his writing is always gravely serious, even angry at times. He was heavily involved in the Catholic revival in France during the early part of the 20th century and his religion heavily informs both the tone and content of his works. However, his reception by Catholics has not been uniformly positive.

"The Death of Judas" is a monologue written by Judas after he has committed suicide by hanging. His first concern is to make sure the reader understands his status among the Apostles. He is, he claims, the most distinguished and worthy of Christ's disciples...