Comparing Erikson And The Pilgrim's Progress

In the Introduction to the course textbook, the author suggests that “Erikson’s life-cycle model seemed like a contemporary version of Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress.” The allegory The Pilgrim’s Progress is essentially a story about a spiritual journey through life, ending with eternity spent in the Celestial City, a.k.a. “Heaven.” Erik H. Erikson’s life-cycle model of eight developmental stages is an overview for understanding the human lifespan. At first glance, one might not see much room for comparison. Erikson’s stages cover the entire human lifespan, while The Pilgrim’s Progress begins with Christian as a grown man of indeterminate age. He has children, but we’re told no more and he might be a young man in his twenties, or even …show more content…
Identity Confusion, and Intimacy vs. Isolation. After some time of journeying and growth Christian is more sure of his identity in Christ, though during trials in moments of isolation he must try to gird up his faith alone. Conversely, each time he can fellowship with fellow travelers, his hope is renewed, his faith strengthened, and his knowledge broadened. His identity also is further affirmed through the bonds with his brothers and sisters in the Faith. Maturity and Old Age – As Christian nears the end of his journey, he is walking in Wisdom and Integrity. Stagnation, Despair and Disgust don’t appear to be part of his narrative at this stage, but he discusses backsliding, which could be considered the beginning of a stagnant state in some part of a believer’s life. Perhaps he gained this wisdom both from observing others and from a personal episode. Further contemplation could reveal more areas of similitude. Finding such comparisons may aid a modern Christian through their own progress through the life stages of