The Holy War

The Holy War is another allegorical work by John Bunyan published in 1682. It portrays the spiritual battle between good and evil using the fictional city of Mansoul as the setting for the conflict. The story is an allegory of the Christian life and explores themes of sin redemption and spiritual warfare. In The Holy War the city of Mansoul represents the human soul. Initially Mansoul is a perfect and peaceful city under the rule of King Shaddai. However the wicked Diabolus who symbolizes Satan deceives the citys inhabitants and gains control over Mansoul. Diabolus erects his own stronghold called Eargate within the city from where he plots to keep the citizens of Mansoul in bondage. The narrative follows the attempts of King Shaddai to reclaim Mansoul from the clutches of Diabolus. He sends his army led by Captain Resistance and other allegorical characters such as Captain Conviction Captain Judgment and Captain Execution to liberate the city. Throughout the story Bunyan depicts the internal struggles faced by Mansouls inhabitants as they grapple with sin and temptation. The characters and events in the story reflect various aspects of the Christian life including the battle against sinful desires the importance of faith and repentance and the need for divine grace.