Doubt John Patrick Shanley Analysis

Sometimes situations may be unclear, and sometimes the fate of someone’s life is decided by the perception of how one views the situation. This idea is relevant in the text Doubt written by John Patrick Shanley. In this parable, a priest is accused of taking advantage of a young boy. Although there is no real resolution to whether he is innocent or guilty, one may imply based on their perception of the story. I believe that the priest is guilty because of his encounters with the boy, Donald Muller, and his resignation at the end. One reason Fr. Flynn is guilty is because of the multiple encounters with the young boy, Donald Muller. Donald is not like any of the other boys. He is black, gay, and does not have very many friends. Knowing this, when Donald is finally accepted by someone he will tend to spend more time with that person. Fr. Flynn explains to Sister James, the teacher of Donald, “it’s me that cares about the boy . . .” (Shanley 40). During the time that Fr. Flynn spends with …show more content…
Flynn is innocent. One main reason why some people might believe this is there is that Donald just needed a friend to talk to. Donald’s mother explained that, “He looks up to him. The man gives him his time, which is what the boy needs. He needs that” (Shanley 44). The mother of Donald does not seem concerned about the issue. One may argue that Donald just needs a friend to talk to and to spend his time with, as his father does not give this to him. Donald was devastated when Fr. Flynn resigned; and one may interpret this as his only friend leaving. Nevertheless, I do not agree with the innocent side. Fr. Flynn even admits, “The truth makes for a bad sermon” (Shanley 39). This information is key to the conclusion of guilty. If Fr. Flynn does not have a problem lying to his entire congregation of people why would he have a problem lying to just one Sister who is of lower status to him? Hence, I believe that Fr. Flynn is