Throughout Bernard Malamuds, beautifully written, The Assistant there were references to cultural icons or to religious symbols that sometimes represent The writers major theme. In this book it is Franks constant resemblance to St. Francis Of Assisi, and Franks subtle conversion to Judaism. The most important religious symbol in the book is St. Francis. Frank Alpine's name two important connotations: It suggests an affinity with St. Francis of Assisi and also refers to mountain heights …showed first 75 words of 464 total…

…showed last 75 words of 464 total…the author that gives us these feelings. I believe that frank is a figure of a saint going through certain changes that make him more of a better person. Franks subtle conversion to Judaism was fortified by the good writing of Malamud. He did it on the last page and on the last line even though there was some foreshadowing. He leaves us in suspense. The circumcision and such gave it away in a nice