Reflection of Faith In the Darkness of War: The Role of Christian Symbolism in the Novel “The Seventh Cross” by A. Seghers

Abstract

The article examines the influence of Christian symbolism on the artistic world of the novel The Seventh Cross by Anna Seghers. Through the analysis of symbols and images, the depth of the novel and its signifi cance for understanding human nature are revealed. The study of the role of Christian motifs and symbols can shed light on how religious allusions help to convey to the reader the ideas, thoughts and feelings of concentration camp refugees, how these motifs are used to convey deep human experiences that cannot be conveyed in words. The paper involves an in-depth analysis of the novel’s fragments and interpretation of symbolic images as well as plot lines to reveal the significance of faith and hope in difficult and hopeless times. It will help to shed light on the importance of faith and religious values in the brutal conditions of war, as well as provide a new perspective on a classic work of GDR literature, showing its relevance and significance in today’s world.