It is human nature to instinctively rebel at obscurity or ordinariness

It is human nature to instinctively rebel at obscurity or ordinariness

Taylor Caldwell, a prolific American novelist known for her historical fiction, understood the human tendency to rebel against obscurity or ordinariness. Throughout her works, Caldwell explored the themes of ambition, power, and the desire for greatness, all of which are rooted in the innate human instinct to rise above mediocrity and make a mark on the world.

In Caldwell's novels, her characters often grapple with the constraints of their circumstances and the limitations placed upon them by society. They yearn for something more, something extraordinary that sets them apart from the masses. This desire for greatness drives them to rebel against the status quo and strive for something greater, even if it means facing adversity and opposition along the way.

One of Caldwell's most famous novels, "Captains and the Kings," tells the story of a young Irish immigrant who rises from poverty to become a powerful and influential figure in American society. The protagonist, Joseph Armagh, rebels against his humble beginnings and refuses to accept a life of obscurity. Instead, he pursues wealth, power, and prestige, determined to leave his mark on the world.

Similarly, in "Dear and Glorious Physician," Caldwell explores the life of the biblical figure Luke, a man who rebels against his ordinary existence as a physician to become a disciple of Jesus Christ. Luke's journey is one of transformation and self-discovery, as he seeks to fulfill his destiny and make a lasting impact on the world.

Caldwell's exploration of the human instinct to rebel against obscurity or ordinariness resonates with readers because it reflects a universal truth about the human experience. We all have a desire to be seen, heard, and remembered, to leave a legacy that transcends our own mortality. This drive for greatness is what propels us to push beyond our limits, to challenge the status quo, and to strive for something more meaningful and significant in our lives.