Movies ask questions, some trivial, some cosmic, the best often both at once. Occasionally, movies also offer answers that suggest the nature of existence itself, the meaning of life, or the name of God. Somewhere in the plotted swirl of doubt and decision, choices get made (or don't), self-knowledge gets acquired (or ignored), and the hero rides into the sunset having provided a little wider perspective on the universe (or doesn't). In short, movies can offer both movie characters and movie watchers a window into the realm of the religious, but also may fail miserably in the attempt.
This course should stretch our abilities as movie watchers to appreciate and critique popular film's treatment of religion, providing terms and tools along the way to help us engage in substantive academic discussion of film. As we examine what film is saying about religion, we will stray into questions about the religious nature of movie-watching, the mythological bases for cinematic art, and the general relationship between religion and artistic expression.
Our specific queries will vary, but may include: How do films convey religious content? How and why do films mine the symbols and themes of religion for non-religious purposes? How and when is a film a "religious" film? How do the treatments of religion in popular film shape as well as reflect personal and cultural manifestations of religious identity? How are the ties between religious sentiment and community represented/exploited in film? And how are the roles and relationships of men and women presented within the film's religious context?
In our quest for answers, we will read, write, watch movies and talk (a lot). |
