Close Reading Analysis. A theological comparison of Philip and Waleran in Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth."

In medieval times, the church played a vital role in society. Philip of Gwynedd and Waleran Bigod are both prominent men of God. They had similar occupations, but fulfilled their duties differently. Though both men held eminent positions, they dealt with their power in very different ways. Waleran took every opportunity to elevate himself. Philip, on the other hand, was content with whatever power he received, leaving the most important decisions to God. Throughout the …

…left the choice to Jonathan and gave his full support to the new prior's decisions. Philip's and Waleran's personalities were polar opposites of each other. Their quarrel reveals the two conflicting sides of the church: the corrupt and the holy. Waleran exploited Christian authority to hurt while Philip used it to help. It was ironic that they had helped each other at times. Nevertheless, it was how they wielded their power that tore them apart.