Pilgrim's Progress Lesson Plan

What happens to the pilgrims when they encounter Flatterer, and what does he represent?

Though they have been warned about Flatterer, the pilgrims do not realize who he is when he approaches them. He has donned a "very light robe" as a way to disguise his "black flesh." Though this description is likely only intended to illustrate the black (i.e., corrupt) nature of Flatterer's soul, not his race, it is worth discussing how this passage can be uncomfortable for contemporary audiences. Flatterer tells the pilgrims that he will lead them to the Celestial City, but before they know it he has led them into a trap. Flatter is a "false apostle," representing teachers with...