Philemon's character changes throughout the story. Can Themba takes us on a journey to see why he transforms. At first Philemon is a devoted husband. And then as a hard working man and a fine friend. The news of his wife's adultery makes him become a detached, controlling and rancorous husband. He turns into a cruel man, taking pleasure in humiliating his wife. Philemon's actions cause his own remorse and pain. We note that the language in the story and Philemon's actions are related to religion, which can be linked to the common belief that Lucifer was an angel cast out of heaven because he wanted to take over heaven or the throne of God.
At the beginning of the story there are warnings that all is not as it seems. (80) A word such as frown and persitalsis sets a tone to the story. Philemon describes his wife as a 'sleeping serenity,' and a 'mututinal miracle.'
Philemon (New Testament person)
Papyrus 87 (Gregory-Aland), fragment of Epistle to...
Philemon and his wife Baucis hospitably entertain ...(80) Philemon is happy 'grinned.' (80) He smiles at the 'odd caprice of the heavens,' not aware that an odd caprice will soon befall him. (80) He embraces his, 'mood of contentment' (81), erroneous outlook. He has a superior view of himself, 'supremest immaculacy,' and of his life. (82) He believes his wife is in absolute awe of him, 'comes out of ether to behold him.' (82) Philemon's descriptions of himself and his wife are narsisstic. In a life filled with poverty, overcrowding and inadequate facilities Philemon has altered his perception so that it accords with his desired world. Men were superior to women, but Philemon helped his wife with chores. The happiness in the beginning of the story contrasts the sadness to come. His seemingly harmless ritual shows he likes to have his life ordered and controlled. He believes his wife...