Essay about Quest for Identity in The Life of Galileo by...

Quest for Identity in The Life of Galileo by Brecht Throughout the course of history, from era to era, mankind has been on a continuous attempt to perpetuate what they perceive as the truth; and in doing so, embark on a quest to find their true identity and place in life. One must realize that the common theme in all literature is the search for identity and belonging. Bertolt Brecht, author of The Life of Galileo, effectively uses the developing character Galileo Galilei to portray a strong message; a message which five hundred years after the fact has still not been completely comprehended. Through Galileos continuous battle with the Church in prevailing his work, Brecht is telling the readers that in any one mans attempt†¦show more content†¦Development and change are issues which the church fears due to the fact that advancement undermine the strength of the chruch when changes are brought to religion. The churchs opinion and attitude towards Galileos discoveries are clearly outlined by Sagredo on Pg. 23 as he states: Do you think the Popes will hear your truth and say Wonderful, Im wrong. Do you think hell even listen to you? ...When I saw you just now, at the telescope, looking at your new stars - I saw you standing on burning logs. When I heard you say I believe in reason - I smelt burnt flesh. (Brecht 23) What Brecht is telling us through the use of Galileo and his stubborn and persistent need to present his findings, is that even though one is presented with adversities, in Galileos case, the church, one must continue to use reason to spread the truth. In any case, Galileo believes that religion does not necessarily have to be sacrificed in order to advance a society in terms of technology. At this point in the play, he believes that the use of reason can overcome any obstacle in the attempt to prevail the truth; in a sense, what Brecht is telling the readers through Galileos stance against the church is that the ability to think, innovate, and propagate the truth are the key requirments that will enhance our society. In this case, Galileo is faced time and time again with adversaries that tell him to stop what he isShow MoreRelatedThe Life of Galileo1545 Words   |  7 Pagesso, embark on a quest to find their true identity and place in life. One must realize that the common theme in all literature is the search for identity and belonging. Bertolt Brecht, author of The Life of Galileo, effectively uses the developing character Galileo Galilei to portray a strong message; a message which five hundred years after the fact has still not been completely comprehended. Through Galileos continuous battle with the Church in prevailing his work, Brecht is telling the readers