This article examines Graham Greene?s novel The Heart of the Matter through the lens of Christian theology, focusing on themes of sin, guilt, suffering, redemption, and divine mercy. It analyzes the character of Major Scobie, whose life is shaped by pity, moral responsibility, and Catholic conscience, leading him into adultery, sacrilege, and ultimately suicide. Drawing upon Catholic doctrines of baptism, confession, penance, and salvation, the study explores Greene?s belief that human imperfection and moral weakness are intrinsic to existence, and that redemption is attainable through suffering and God?s mercy. The article argues that Scobie?s tragic end reflects the conflict between human compassion and divine law, illustrating Greene?s fusion of spirituality and fiction and his assertion that ultimate judgment lies beyond institutional religion, within the inscrutable mercy of God.
Research Scholar, Department of English, J. P. University, Chhapra
