Biblical Myths and Humanism in Cat’s Cradle and Slaughterhouse-Five

ABSTRACT This paper examines how Vonnegut uses biblical myths and his newly created religion Bokononism as effective weapons to uphold the worth of human beings in the contemporary society. He searches for a new way of life through this religion to make human existence meaningful amid the incomprehensible realities of the present day scientific world. He has incorporated the philosophy of humanism in this religion. It searches for morality through human means in support of human interests. The paper also analyzes how Vonnegut’s theories and concepts of religion would help man to survive in the world devoid of values. Vonnegut employs biblical myths to render his vision effectively. He recommends the myths that console human beings and criticizes the myths that consider rituals and religious systems primary. He feels that myths of a religion must comfort and console people and they should not threaten them. Since biblical stories are very popular, Vonnegut uses biblical myths to present his ideas sharply and effectively to his readers