Articles

Franz Werfel’s Rosary Mysteries

Ann Astell

Abstract

Abstract

Ann Astell analyzes the profound structural and theological significance of the Rosary in Franz Werfel’s 1941 historical novel, The Song of Bernadette. Astell argues that Werfel intentionally maps the novel's five books to the five Joyful Mysteries, while holistically integrating the Sorrowful and Glorious Mysteries into the protagonist's life, suffering, and canonization. Finally, she demonstrates how Werfel reframes hagiography to show a modern saint's life as an organic extension of the gospel's mysteries.