'Da Vinci Code' author says novel overcomes religious 'apathy'

Published: 2006-04-27

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (CNS) -- The author of the "The Da Vinci Code" said his best-selling novel goes beyond its "commercial value" to discuss "big ideas" about the role of religion in history. The book also has sparked lively debate and dialogue on Christianity, overcoming the "apathy" that can envelop religion and people of faith, said Dan Brown. His novel, which has been criticized for its treatment of Catholic figures and institutions, has been turned into a movie, which is scheduled to be released nationwide May 19. "Religion is a work in progress. We learn by our mistakes," he said April 23 on the New Hampshire Public Radio program "Writers on a New England Stage." The program was broadcast from Portsmouth but was made available on the radio station's Web site. A main plot element in the novel is that Jesus and Mary Magdalene had children and their descendants live in secret today. Important clues to this are hidden in the paintings of Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. The novel has sold more than 40 million copies worldwide.

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