Ashby: Christian Themes

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In Ashby’s film, Being There approaches to confirm Christian themes, and preach basic themes in Monotheistic religions. The imagery of Christian themes provides a framework of ideas, and he often makes reference to belief, in Christian theology. In the film, Chance is seen as a Messianic-like figure, by representing himself to use simple language in metaphors, and his language affects individuals. He encourages individuals to appreciate simpler things and nature. Chance can also be interpreted as Adam in the Bible. The film can be understood as a satire on religion because it illustrates religious themes in an amusing manner. The movie is a satire of the Christian tradition because it humorously compares the concept of Jesus and Man, Adam in …show more content…
Specifically, the estate of Mr. Rand could be interpreted as being the garden of Eden. Chance was never taught formal and informal societal norms. It can be interpreted in the Christian tradition that Chance never bit into the Apple from the tree of knowledge and not having done that he remained free of the limitations of knowledge and the sin that comes from it. Chance was Prophet Adam who never took the bite of the apple and thus, never had to leave the garden of Eden. Chance was also not successfully tempted or seduced from Eve. After Ben’s death, it was clearly stated in the film, that Eve was going to stay on the estate, and was implied that Chance would as well. The estate would be their protected space and can be interpreted as Paradise. Without original sin, Adam and Eve would never have left the Garden. Conversely, due to the absence of original sin, Chance and Eve do not leave the estate, which can be deduced as the garden of Eden. This can be interpreted in a satirical manner because the estate is not a magnificent paradise. The estate is lush and grand, although, does not fit into the stereotypical depiction of the garden of Eden. Another humorous premise in the film is Chance was not tempted by Eve, compared to the concept in the Bible. Eve tried on numerous occasions, to entice Chance, but he was religiously fixated on watching television and doing things the actors on the screen …show more content…
Language is a powerful tool for individuals to hear, listen and interpret the message Chance makes. The film satirically illustrates the naiveté and power the media, and language play in the role, to persuade the masses. Analyzing the film through a satirical religious lens, Chance’s simple language shows the persuasiveness religion and religious leaders or messengers play to sway the simple minded masses.
Death is a central theme in the film, as the Old Man dies in the beginning in the film, and death is portrayed as a comfortable abode and eternal reality. In one of the final scenes of the film, the religious Christian death ceremony for Mr. Rand is satirized. Instead of it being a respectful and quiet ceremony, the ceremony is satirized from the individuals carrying Mr. Rands caskets, mocking his death.
Throughout the film, religion is satirized through a comedic lens, specifically relating to Chance Gardiner. The film shows the innate disposition of the unintelligence of the masses to follow Chance’s message. Chance is also not an ideal Messianic or prophet figure because he is not relatable to the common people as he does not know common social etiquettes and norms. Conversely, compared to Chance, Jesus promises safety to humanity, dictates a sacrificial nature, and is confident about preaching his

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