The Evangelical Catholic: Flannery O'Connor as a Catholic Writer in the Protestant South

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine the theology of Flannery O'Connor and her unique identity as a Catholic writer in the Protestant South. She was a devout member of the Catholic minority, but the Evangelical atmosphere colored her writing and influenced the theology of her characters and her themes. I examine three different areas where Protestants and Catholics have traditionally clashed and demonstrate how O'Connor utilizes tenets of both religions to communicate her themes. First, in 'The River,' 'Greenleaf,' and 'The Enduring Chill,' I look at the Sacraments and O'Connor's respect for their necessity while also recognizing her perspective on the necessity of the Spirit to make them viable. Next I examine the argument of Grace versus works in 'Good Country People' and 'Revelation.' While the Catholic O'Connor values works as paramount in earning salvation, she also respects the Protestant reliance on God's grace. Finally, in 'Parker's Back' I study the marriage of Sarah Ruth and O.E. Parker as a symbol of a 'marriage' between Protestants and Catholics, uniting their views of revelation utilizing body and spirit and image and word. In examining these stories, Flannery O'Connor emerges as a writer that finds a common ground between theologies at odds for centuries. She demonstrates that there are truths in both religions that are equally necessary in a personal pilgrimage to Christ.