Shūsaku Endō's 'Silence': The 1966 novel that captivated Martin Scorsese
Shūsaku Endō's 1966 novel 'Silence' follows Portuguese Jesuit missionaries in 17th-century Japan during the persecution of Christians. The story centers on their quest to aid oppressed Japanese Christians and to discover the fate of Father Ferreira, a key missionary who has reportedly apostatized. The novel explores themes of faith, silence, and martyrdom, famously adapted into a 2016 film by Martin Scorsese. The article highlights the enduring power of Endō's narrative and its historical context.
Key facts
- Shūsaku Endō published 'Silence' in 1966.
- The novel is set in 17th-century Japan.
- It follows Portuguese Jesuit missionaries.
- The missionaries aim to help persecuted Japanese Christians.
- They seek to find Father Ferreira, a missionary who may have renounced his faith.
- The novel was adapted into a film by Martin Scorsese in 2016.
- The article includes a quote from the novel reflecting on martyrdom and silence.
- The story explores the silence of God in the face of suffering.
Entities
Artists
- Shūsaku Endō
- Martin Scorsese
Locations
- Japan
- Portugal