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Cover of The Cities of the Sun: Stories of Ancient America founded on historical incidents in the Book of Mormon

The Cities of the Sun: Stories of Ancient America founded on historical incidents in the Book of Mormon

Written by Elizabeth Cannon Porter

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About this book

"The Cities of the Sun" by Elizabeth Cannon Porter is a collection of historical stories written in the early 20th century. The book is grounded in the events chronicled in the Book of Mormon and explores the ancient Americas, drawing on historical incidents and figures to weave fictional narratives. The tales include themes of love, power, and sovereignty, often focusing on key characters such as King Noah, the prophet Abinadi, and Alma, among others. The opening of the book introduces a rich tapestry of characters and settings, beginning with a scene in the royal court where King Noah is engaged in light-hearted banter with his favorite priest, Amulon, about matters of the heart. The narrative soon turns darker, as the prophet Abinadi is brought before the king and his council, facing dire threats for his defiance against their wickedness and his prophecies of doom. As Abinadi delivers a powerful message regarding repentance and redemption, we see the beginning of a clash between faith and political power, setting up a dramatic conflict that will unfold throughout these tales. The sense of imminent danger and the rich character interactions entice readers into the ancient world and moral struggles depicted in the text.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Cities of the Sun: Stories of Ancient America founded on historical incidents in the Book of Mormon, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • historical
  • dramatic
  • moral

Elizabeth Cannon Porter's "The Cities of the Sun" is an early 20th-century collection of historical stories set in ancient America, meticulously founded on incidents and figures from the Book of Mormon. The narratives delve into profound themes of love, power, and sovereignty, often centering on pivotal characters like the despotic King Noah, the defiant prophet Abinadi, and the transformative figure of Alma. The book immediately immerses readers in a dramatic conflict, beginning with King Noah's frivolous court and quickly escalating to the prophet Abinadi's courageous confrontation against royal wickedness and impending judgment. This clash between spiritual conviction and political authority forms the dramatic core of the tales, exploring moral struggles and the consequences of faith and defiance.

“"The sun may warm our courts, Amulon, but it is a woman's smile that truly melts a king's resolve." (King Noah, reflecting his frivolous nature)”

Key themes

Faith vs. Power
This theme explores the inherent conflict between divine faith and corrupt temporal power. King Noah's reign embodies the abuse of power for personal gain and suppression of truth, while Abinadi represents the unwavering conviction of faith, even unto death. The narrative highlights how political power, when unguided by moral principles, can lead to tyranny and societal decay, whereas faith, even in the face of overwhelming odds, can inspire transformative change and true freedom.
Repentance and Redemption
The theme of repentance and redemption is central to the spiritual message of the book. Abinadi's primary message is a call to repentance for the wicked people of Noah. While King Noah and most of his priests reject this call, Alma's conversion serves as a powerful example of an individual embracing repentance and finding redemption. The narrative illustrates that true change requires acknowledging wrongdoing, turning away from sin, and seeking spiritual renewal, leading to a path of righteousness and divine favor.
Prophecy and Divine Judgment
The book emphasizes the role of prophecy as a divine warning and a foretelling of consequences. Abinadi's prophecies are not merely predictions but urgent calls for action, outlining the inevitable judgment that awaits those who persist in wickedness. This theme underscores the belief in a just God who intervenes in human affairs, holding individuals and societies accountable for their choices. The fulfillment of these prophecies, whether through destruction or spiritual renewal, reinforces the authority of the divine word.

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