Epiphany as a central theme in four novels of Patrick White

Abstract

Readers are aware, when reading Patrick White's novels, of his frequent use of illumination and epiphany in his characters' journeys through life. Often these experiences are associated with light. The word 'epiphany' is derived from the Greek root, 'epiphainein', meaning 'to manifest', and it refers specifically to the Christian festival celebrated on January 6th in the Orthodox Church. In the Oxford English Dictionary, first edition, the word 'epiphany' is confined to 'a manifestation or striking appearance of some divine or superhuman being. The core religious association comes from the viewing of the Infant Christ by the Magi or three wise men, as described in the Christian Bible. This Biblical description is preceded by a revelation to the men advising of the infant's birth and then to a summoning of them to see God in the human form of Jesus.