How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #1
"My daughter is an atheist and won't let me keep the Bible in my parlor." (31)
Mrs. Hopewell really keeps her Bible in the attic, meaning she doesn't think it's important to have around—so while she might not be an atheist, religion definitely isn't a big part of her life. She seems proud of Hulga's position, and can use it as an excuse when convenient.
Quote #2
He was now nineteen years old and had been selling Bibles for four months. In that time he had sold seventy-five Bibles […]. (50)
Even though it's been established that Mrs. Hopewell and Joy aren't interested in Biblical matters, Manley continues convincing him that he is all about the Bible. He knows that in spite of their beliefs, they won't be able to help trusting him.
Quote #3
She took care of it as someone else would his soul, in private and almost with her own eyes turned away. (124)
This line is really touching and revealing; it shows a sincere side to Hulga, and makes us think about how humans have a tendency to worship objects in a religious way, even outside the confines of a specific religion.
Quote #4
She said he owned a '55 Mercury but that Glynese said she would rather marry a man with a '36 Plymouth who would be married by a preacher. (67)
Mrs. Freeman admires her daughter's stance, which lets us know that the Freeman's are religious people. Even though Mrs. Hopewell doesn't seem to be very religious herself, the Freeman's devotion is probably part of why she thinks they aren't "trash."
Quote #5
"We won't need the Bible," she observed.
"You can never tell." (110-111)
At this point it just sounds like Manley wants to have the word of God on hand at all times… but when we find out what's really inside his Bible, the lines are sort of ominous.
Quote #6
"You're a Christian! […] You're a fine Christian! You're just like them all— you say one thing and do another. You're a perfect Christian, you're…"(139)
O'Connor doesn't shy away from chiding those who use Christianity for their own selfish purposes. Through Manley and Hulga she is able to discuss how religion can be used to take advantage of others.