In Hilary Mantel's book "Slicing," the character Sister Philomena reflects on the nature of Christ's sacrifice. She recognizes that while Christ died to emancipate humanity from sin, he seemingly did not intervene to alleviate the burdens of human folly. This observation hints at the complexity of human experience, where spiritual salvation does not equate to an elimination of ignorance or foolishness.

This idea prompts deeper contemplation about the human condition. It underscores that while divine grace may provide forgiveness, individuals must still grapple with their own lack of wisdom and understanding. Sister Philomena's insights serve as a reminder of the distinction between spiritual redemption and the perennial struggles of human intellect.