Summary
Highlights
The tale is about the return of Jesus Christ in 16th-century Spain, where he performs miracles that attract public attention.
Instead of being welcomed, Jesus is arrested by the Grand Inquisitor, who questions his actions and motives in visiting Earth again.
The Inquisitor critiques Jesus for refusing the temptations of Satan, arguing that free will is a burden on humanity.
The Inquisitor explains how accepting the temptations of bread, power, and authority would have benefited humanity more than freedom.
The Inquisitor argues that humans prefer security over freedom, which Jesus' rejection of Satan's offers denied them.
The Grand Inquisitor claims the Church has corrected Jesus' mistakes by providing the security and stability people need.
Jesus responds to the Inquisitor's lengthy accusations with an act of silent love and forgiveness, showing the power of unconditional love.