The Return of the Prodigal Son by Andre Gide Summary

Gide's interpretation of the biblical parable of the prodigal son created quite a bit of controversy in France, not least among his close, Catholic friends. Gide felt a strong personal attachment to the work, however, and was not to be deterred in publishing in it.

The story begins by narrating, with expanded detail, the original gospel story. The prodigal son, who has wasted his inheritance toiling away in foreign lands, comes back to his father's house and is warmly welcomed by his parents, who thought he was dead. They feast sumptuously and the older brother mulls over why his parents do not seem to cherish him as much, even though he never even left.

Thus ends the parable and the remainder of the story is wholly original...