The central theme in Jorge Luis Borges’ work Paracelsus and the Rose is that of faith without the need for physical proof. This theme is woven throughout the story and is even stated rather bluntly at one point. There are only two characters in the story of Paracelsus and the Rose. The two characters, Paracelsus and the stranger, have never met each other before 6995482and the stranger never even gives his name to Paracelsus; he is simply referred to as the disciple of the man. Paracelsus is a widely renowned Alchemist whom the stranger wants to study under despite never having met him before. The disciple, as he is called, is willing to pay Paracelsus to teach him Alchemy, however, he demands to be shown the most famous trick the Paracelsus can do, which is burning a rose and then bringing it back from the ashes (much like a Phoenix). The disciple states that after seeing this trick he will be satisfied and will believe in his power. Paracelsus, however, refuses to show the man the trick and tells him that one does not need to see something to have faith in it.

‘“You are most credulous”, said the master, “but it’s not belief I require, it’s faith.”’

– Paracelsus, Jorge Luis Borges

The disciple is sure then that Paracelsus cannot perform this trick and he takes his money and leaves; although it is seen shortly after that Paracelsus can indeed perform the trick. This story and the Bible share many parallel teachings. This theme of faith is also a huge part of Jesus’ teaching to His own disciples.

This story, Paracelsus and the Rose, is particularly important for Christian writers to read. This is because this story shares a very common theme with the Bible, faith without seeing and believing without proof. Of course, this piece should be read by every potential writer paracelsus-1because Borges is fantastic, but it is most pressing for Christian writers. For high school teachers in Christian schools, this would be a wonderful story to use in lessons because it ties in to the Bible very well. For public high school teachers, this is still a wonderful story to teach and it’s very short so it shouldn’t be all that hard to keep teenagers focused on it. I know I’ve used acting out the scene as an idea before, but since there are only two characters in this story I think it would be fun to put kids in pairs and have them act out a little skit based on this story. Instead of having Paracelsus be an Alchemist they could have him be whatever they want as long as it’s something modern. For example, Paracelsus could be a magician and his famous trick could be making a rabbit appear out of nowhere (of course their ideas should be more original but you know what I mean).