u/SpireofHell

He became my favorite boss in every aspect. I think we should dedicate time to appreciate his brilliant design

While normally I hats bosses with invulnerability phases, the Archibishop's phase is under your control. So you always have something to do. There is no 'wait' time.

While he's a tank, he also doesn't hit too hard so it's balanced

He gradually becomes more difficult rather than BAM NEW PHASE, which I prefer. It gives a better rhythm to the fight

His design is so unsettling. The way they hold him in that angle, the way he stabs you and looks so casual about it... The Miracle has a sick sense of humor.

And he also has the trailer music, which is just epic.

Some random thoughts I had while pondering over the story.

I realized that pretty much ALL penance in the game revolves around causing suffering to oneself, rather than ease the suffering of another.

Charred Lady didn't use her beauty to gain power and then uplift people. The twisted one's guilt didn't make him go on a quest to learn medicine and cure the sick.

The Kissers of Wounds are one example of a group who is devoted to help the weak, and they DIDN'T get transformed into something hideous by the Miracle. Their penance is not them causing suffering to themselves, but alleviating the suffering of others.

In True Ending, where the Penitent breaks the cycle, he doesn't just 'kill bosses'. He actively HELPS people. Suffering is no longer the end of existence. The Penitent helps Crisanta break free. He helps Esdras accept the loss of his sister. In that ending, suffering is no longer the cure.

I often see discussions about whether Blasphemous pays tribute or criticizes religion. I think it criticizes this specific aspect of religion. This is form of self-flagellation is not unique to religion by the way. I often see it in other places. I think Blasphemous criticizes self-flagellation, self-inflicted suffering as a way of penance.

Guilt is not in itself a bad thing. People sin. But causing oneself suffering does not improve the world. If you're a bad person, even an abusive one, you can do far more to improve the world. An abusive person who pays for another's therapy contributes more, does more 'penance' than an abusive person who lashes himself.