The Witnesses: Clive Sansom’s verse monologues (2006, study)

Winner of a Festival of Britain poetry competition in 1951, The Witnesses by Clive Sansom has lost none of its original impact. These verse monologues explore the personal cost of devotion to Jesus, whether through the warped selfishness of Judas, the agony of the disciple John or the search for meaning that drives the Rich Young Ruler. Others less close to Jesus are touched unexpectedly by his presence: the Innkeeper’s Wife at the Nativity, and even the ruthless High Priest Caiaphas. Each of the five study units is based on a theme, including discipleship, healing and betrayal. Each unit includes two poems with accompanying Bible passages, commentary and discussion questions. The poems were written to be read aloud, and the study course might culminate in a rehearsed reading or performance.