According to Foster, nearly every religion has some "litergical or social ritual involving the coming together of the faithful to share sustanence."

If an author is including eating/ a meal, there needs to be a reason.


Remember:
  1. Not all communions are holy (although some are).
  2. communions are an act of sharing and of peace (but can demonstrate the lack of peace in a character or relationship)
  3. the act of taking food into our bodies is personal

As we read literature this year, if you run into a meal scene, come back to this page and discuss whether it is a comunion, and what purpose it serves in the work of literature.

Work of Literature
Scene in novel (describe and analyze)
Purpose to Work
Jane Eyer by Charlotte Bronte
Tea with Mr. Rochester
Jane is asked by Mr. Rochester to join him for tea on multiple occasions. He tells her that he enjoys her witty, sarcastic remarks and she continues to accompany him. This shows a certain level of comfort and company. Sharing a meal is a symbol of peace and friendship. This eventually leads to the beginning of their romance.