The Mandelbaum Gate Overview

In Muriel Spark's The Mandelbaum Gate, the cultural and religious tension between Jordan and Israel make a pilgrimage difficult for Catholic convert Barbara. Barbara struggles with the limitations she's forced to endure based on her religious background. But with the help of a newfound friend, also struggling with identity crisis, throughout the course of her journey she's able to come to grips with the true purpose behind her rebellious journey and develop the person she desires to be without the restrictions of her stereotypes.