Why We Read Ballantyne

Why is it that we read R. M. Ballantyne?

Is it because we like fictional stories? Tales of adventure, and excitement? Partly. But is there something deeper? Something more worthwhile? I think so.

Ballantyne's books are more than just exciting adventure stories. They contain deeper, fuller, richer truths than what meets the eye on a cursory view. They are different than the vast majority of novels. What is that difference? His main characters are men.

Please allow me to clarify this statement. I don't mean that we glean inspiration from Ballantyne's works because his main characters are males. I mean that they are men. Strong, noble, manly men who present a firm brow to the world, and contain a sturdy set of shoulders capable of carrying their God-given portion of sorrows and joys. Not whimpering simpletons who spend all day playing video games and chatting with other simpletons on social networking sites.

Ballantyne's characters are physically hearty, having trained their bodies from youth to "be inured from childhood to trifling risks and slight dangers," as the author said. But, you ask, what's so different about Ballantyne's tales from other books? Jules Verne's characters are strong. Robert Louis Stevenson's fellows are hearty and active. Herman Melville's sailors can throw a harpoon with the best.

Herman Melville

All this is true. If Ballantyne's character development stopped with bodily strength, he would fit in with the authors already mentioned. But he doesn't. He goes deeper. Ballantyne goes to the heart and soul of a man. Melville's sailors have come to the "conclusion that a man's religion is one thing and this practical world quite another." (Moby-Dick) Verne leaves science to save the world, with a smattering of religious thought as an accompaniment. Stevenson doesn't quite know what to think regarding spiritual matters, therefore his characters dispense contrary and conflicting opinions.

Ballantyne is diametrically opposed to these view points. His men and boys "know whom they have believed," and are capable of defending their faith in great detail. They don't hold the opinion that each man should believe whatever he likes best. Instead, they are assured of the truth of God's word and earnestly endeavor to evangelize those around.

And so, let's give a huzzah for Ballantyne's manly men, his gospel message, and his inspirational books! Others can keep the video games.

Tutela ex Vulnero,

John