The Big Fisherman (1959) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film takes place in ancient Galilee, primarily in fishing villages and the countryside, before shifting to the political environment of Herod Antipas' household. Some scenes also occur in Arabia. The settings portray a rustic, religious landscape where prophets and early followers of Jesus gather.

• galilee
• setting
• locations
• herod antipas household
• ancient palestine

The story is set in the early decades of the 1st century CE during Roman Judea. This period coincides with the emergence of Jesus' teachings and represents a time of tension between Jewish tradition and Roman authority.

• 1st century
• roman judea
• historical setting
• time period

The film explores three interconnected themes: forgiveness, transformation, and redemption. Forgiveness centers on letting go of vengeance in the face of personal pain. Transformation shows characters moving from doubt and anger toward faith and commitment. Redemption depicts moral renewal through embracing Jesus' teachings.

• forgiveness
• transformation
• redemption
• themes
• faith

Simon Peter is a fisherman portrayed by Howard Keel who begins the story with independence and skepticism toward Jesus' teachings. Through the narrative, he transforms from a practically minded skeptic into a devoted follower, eventually becoming a central figure in the early Christian journey.

• simon peter
• fisherman
• disciple
• howard keel
• faith journey

Fara is the young daughter of Herod Antipas and Arnon, played by Susan Kohner. Disguising herself as a boy, she embarks on a quest for vengeance. Her arc involves confronting the teachings of Jesus, ultimately choosing peace over revenge and surrendering to a higher calling.

• fara
• herod antipas daughter
• susan kohner
• revenge plot
• redemption

Herod Antipas is the ruler of Galilee, portrayed by Herbert Lom. He governs from regional power centers and becomes entangled in courtly politics and personal vendettas. His character reflects the tension between power, mercy, and restraint as he interacts with both Fara's revenge plot and the emerging peaceful teachings of Jesus.

• herod antipas
• governor
• galilee ruler
• herbert lom
• political intrigue

Forgiveness serves as a central theme, depicting the possibility of letting go of vengeance when characters confront personal wounds. Both Peter and Fara illustrate mercy in the face of pain, with forgiveness becoming the bridge between suffering and peace that guides their actions beyond personal revenge.

• forgiveness
• vengeance
• mercy
• peace
• letting go

The film traces the transformation of both Peter and Fara from states of doubt and anger toward faith and commitment. A single encounter with Jesus' message acts as a catalyst, redirecting their lives and enabling inner growth despite the surrounding conflict and political turmoil.

• transformation
• character arc
• faith
• growth
• spiritual change

Redemption in the film represents moral renewal through exposure to Jesus' teachings. Fara's decision to abandon murder demonstrates redemption through choosing peace, while Peter's declaration of freedom from his inner chains signals the possibility of finding new purpose through faith.

• redemption
• moral renewal
• new purpose
• faith
• spiritual freedom

John the Baptist appears as a prophet played by Jay Barney who guides Fara toward listening to Jesus' message and emphasizes repentance. He serves as a voice of moral clarity during a period of political and personal turmoil, helping shape Peter's perception of the new teachings.

• john the baptist
• prophet
• repentance
• moral guidance
• jay barney

The film is set against the political backdrop of Roman Judea in the 1st century, where Herod Antipas governs Galilee. The narrative highlights the tension between Jewish tradition and Roman authority, with Herodias embodying the political intrigue surrounding the royal court and the fragile balance between desire, loyalty, and ambition.

• roman empire
• herodias
• political intrigue
• jewish tradition
• roman authority