Notes

Once Christian makes his way to the gates, he concentrates on listening to the stories of the Interpreter. He learns a great deal, especially when the Interpreter begins to use visions and characters to teach Christian lessons. Passion and Patience are allegorical examples of the two kinds of men there are: those who live for the present and those who live for eternity. The Interpreter advises Christian to be a man of Patience.

The visions that follow this scene are examples of the things Christian wants to avoid. One if the unforgivable offence of denouncing God. The other is the painfully uncomfortable situation of having an unclear conscience. In short, the lessons are to be faithful and to be free from guilt. The two men Christian observes and speaks with are examples of the kind of man he does not want to become. In short, this entire section is a lesson in observation and interpretation. Christian must watch, learn, and remember.

John Bunyan keeps referring back to himself and the fact that this narrative is a dream. In this way, the reader is continuously made aware of the author's presence.

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