Self-Sacrifice In Silence Within The Mission

The concept of self-sacrifice elicits thoughts associated with characteristics such as selflessness, courage, and utilitarianism. In a world that is black and white, free of complexity, self-sacrifice appears to be less of a challenge than in a world where the action of sacrifice may, in turn, bring upon greater conflict. Within the films Silence directed by Martin Scorsese and The Mission directed by Roland Joffe, characters must use philosophical reasoning through a consequential and deontological framework to question the intent and worth of self-sacrifice while also grappling with the ramifications of their actions within society.
Despite the plot being set in the jungles of South America and taking place a century later, The Mission bears many similarities with events in …show more content…
Near the end of the movie are the most substantial scenes that depict the philosophical influences of the decisions of the Jesuits. The Spanish and Portuguese wanted to control the land of the Guarani and thus unleashed their military might on them. Acting from a deontological standpoint, Father Gabriel led a mass procession that involved many Guarani adults and children to march into the oncoming hail of bullets from the European powers. As a deeply devout Jesuit, Gabriel opposed all forms of violence and instead turned to the callings of his faith. He sacrifices himself, although, in the process, many others are killed. Mendoza and Fielding, operated under a consequential mindset. They want to save the Guarani from the assault of the Portuguese and Spanish and so they believe their fighting will result in a better chance for the Guarani to keep their land. Technically the actions of Fielding and Mendoza are not consequential, the Guarani are still slaughtered and their fighting did not benefit them, but their intentions do fall under the same