Religious Figures in Cinema: The Moral Dilemma of Authority

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Citations

Citeable URL: https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/undergraduate_honors_theses/k643b282f

Abstract

The religious figure in cinema is a fascinating archetype to study due to a high moral compass. Some of these religious figures come across as completely righteous, while others are portrayed with nuance as they struggle to meet the unrealistic expectations that the church places on them. These religious figures also tend to be at odds with authoritative structures, either internal or external. This thesis will examine how the religious figure is portrayed against other people of authority within a hierarchal institution. Specifically, this thesis will examine Christian religious figures, including the priest, the nun, and the missionary. There will be an exploration of ethics, morality, authority, gender, and religion all through the lens of the religious figure.

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