Topic: Writing Assignment 2

Order Description

This is a short essay paper. It should contain a brief introductory paragraph clearly stating your argument, followed by about 3-5 paragraphs containing main points/evidence, and a brief concluding paragraph summarizing the argument. It should be 2 (absolute minimum) to 4 (absolute maximum) pages in length, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins and in 12-point Times New Roman (or similar) font.

Prompt: In chapter 15 of God in the Movies, Bergesen talks about how, rather than just representing how humans relate to God, “God in the Movies” movies attempt to actually represent God. The authors also point out throughout the book that the human desire to “represent God” is timeless. We, as a society, will always try to represent God, yet what we use to do so will change as we change (since “society” is where we go to get the cultural pieces that allow us to effectively communicate with each other). Metaphors for God, then, have started to use more of our technological advancements because these advancements are becoming more and more important in our collective daily life. As Bergesen says, if God can be represented as a little old man or a beautiful woman, then why not a computer program or computer hacker?

In this essay, address how The Matrix uses modern technology (e.g. the Internet, being “plugged in” or “unplugged,” binary code, virtual reality, or anything else you may notice) as religious metaphor (i.e. to show what God may or may not be like). The metaphors you address may be from Christianity, Buddhism, or any other religious tradition you are familiar with—just be sure to explain why you think they are religious metaphors and illustrate your point with specific examples.

An “A” paper will:

Fully address the topic/question at hand

Demonstrate an understanding of the assigned readings and each film’s main themes/points/metaphors about God, including:

At least one CLEAR example from each film

At least two CLEAR references to assigned readings

Develop a logical argument that is easy to follow

Be the appropriate length/format and contain few spelling or grammatical errors

The goal of these assignments is to demonstrate your ability to apply what we’ve been reading to an analysis of the religious imagery in the films we’ve been watching. There are no right or wrong answers to these questions, as long as you provide evidence to back up your arguments. No formal “works cited” page is required, and you shouldn’t need to cite any material outside what is discussed throughout the course. However, if you choose to include other people’s words or ideas in your paper, be sure to cite them correctly. Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Please contact me if you have any questions about properly citing outside material.