I initially though I would be focusing on Harrington's assumption that Bernice would convert to Christianity upon their supposed marriage despite his previous acceptance of her religion (196). Yet, while reading the newest chapters in Harrington, a phrase kept jumping out at me; a phrase that I thought to be even more important than Harrington's presumption . More than once in the chapters read for today, Mr. Montenero was referred to as a Christian. For example, the orange woman talked to Mr.Montenero, stating, "Jew as you have this day the misfortune to be, you're the best Christian any way ever I happened upon" (236). This happens once again when Lady Anne and Lady Brantefield are taking refuge in Mr. Montenero's home, the widow states, "There goes as good a Christian . . . Oh, if he isn't a jewl of a Jew!" (243). Mr Montenero also embodies positive christian values when he disregards the state of his house in efforts to keep the two women safe. Mr.Montenero is a rich man, and more than that, he is a rich Jew. Yet, he willing to put his possessions into the line danger to protect the two "papists" while they sat worrying over the state of their own home (264).
It is common knowledge that Christians and Jews hold different beliefs when it comes to Jesus. As a result a it is a peculiar decision to call a Jewish person a Christian. Mr.Montenero is a character who works to break down the previously held conceptions about Jewish people. Edgeworth paints an easily favorable picture of Montenero which, in the context of the novel, important to be recognized by the main character. Through the novel, we have witnessed Harrington's views toward Jewish people change. That is why transformation and recognition of the goodness in Mr.Montenero is so important. His realization leads the audience to possibly make the same connection in their own lives.
What is the affect of Characterizing Montenero as a Christian/ What parts of her characterization either weaken or strengthen her case for the better treatment of Jews?
What may the affect have been if Edgeworth portrayed Montenro solely as "good Jew"?
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