An allegorical story is one that is written in a symbolic or figurative way. When you read an allegorical story, you are not actually supposed to understand the meaning of the story.
An allegory is a story that is based on a real event or thing, but it is not actually true. Allegories often use a dramatic or symbolic story to teach a moral lesson.
To scathing is to criticize harshly. When you scathingly critique someone's work, you are usually very critical.
Staunchly means strongly. People who are staunchly opposed to something usually have very strong feelings about it.
Simony is the act of giving money or other gifts to a priest in order to gain favor or influence. It is often considered a very bad thing, because it can corrupt the priest and damage the church.
Nepotism is the practice of giving jobs or promotions to family members or friends. Nepotism is usually illegal, but it can sometimes be hard to fight because it's difficult to prove that someone was unfairly given a position.
A pardon is a formal pardon that is given to someone who has been convicted of a crime. A pardon can either pardone the person's punishment or pardon the person of their conviction.
To converses is to talk to someone. When you Converses with someone, you are trying to get to know them better.
The word "antiquated" is usually used to describe things or ideas that are no longer popular or fashionable. antiquated ideas or things are often criticized for being old-fashioned or out of date.