The Pilgrim’s Progress

5b John Bunyan. Engravings by Harvey, Martin and Corbould. London: Richard Griffin and co. 1860. Notes The Pilgrim’s Progress, first published in 1678, is one of the most influential works of Christian literature in the English language. Written by John Bunyan while he was imprisoned for preaching without a license, the book is an allegory that follows a character named Christian as he journeys from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. Along the way, he faces spiritual trials, temptations, and encounters symbolic figures like Evangelist, Faithful, and Hopeful, all representing aspects of the Christian life. The story’s power lies in its simplicity and depth—it speaks to the inner struggles of faith, repentance, perseverance, and salvation in a form that is both accessible and profound. The book was immediately popular and has never been out of print. Its imaginative narrative, grounded in Scripture, appealed to readers across social and educational backgrounds. Later editions