The film thriller "The Source Code" explores the idea of an unbalanced hero in his quest to prevent more lives from being lost. Now before viewing the trailer, I analyzed what archetypal connection the title Source Code has. When first thinking of the Source Code, I thought of how it is usually an idea that penetrates through to the inner recesses of the human mind, making me think immediately of the Quest for Identity archetype. Upon watching the trailer, Captain Stevens embarks on a quest for enlightenment journey in which his job is to find the culprit who bombed the train. At first, Captain Stevens meets an unknown woman and goes to the washroom, only to find another man looking back at him in the mirror. The common archetype of a mirror is used to show reflection as well as uncertainty regarding identity. The fact that there was a different person looking back on Stevens makes the reader question the stability of the protagonist as well as his true character. The protagonist later finds out that he is part of the Source Code, which is actually a computer program designed to take over another mans identity in the last 8 minutes of life.
Throughout the trailer, a major archetype that is touched upon is the importance of time. The archetype of time is apparent because of the almost subliminal images of a watch as well as the idea of valuing the importance of time by “...making those seconds count.” This coincides with the fact that the protagonist only has 8 minutes to execute the mission and save another travesty from happening because despite the limited amount of time, history is dictated by those few seconds that matter. This cycle will continue until he completes his mission, contributing to the idea of Death and Rebirth and how that cycle influences the individual.
The viewer can also see a possible transition in the role of the hero in this trailer. The hero can be first indentified as an unbalanced hero because of the uncertainty regarding his own identity and his values. His goal was to save future people from falling victim towards the bomber and is a quest for knowledge. However, through the use of the source code, Stevens begins to become attached to those who have already died. He wishes to save the woman he has bonded with, despite the fact that she is going to die. The woman that appears in this trailer is a modern day adaptation of the damsel in distress character, her weakness being her naivety. She is unaware of the severity of the situation and the impending travesty that will occur. The limited amount of time spent together coincides with the idea of how a human being would make every second count even knowing death is upon them. The actions of Stevens later on in the trailer goes against his original intentions, again calling into question the identity of the character and the mirror scene in which he doesn't know who he truly is.
This character analysis reveals the bigger idea of the conflict of the protagonist fighting against fate and divine intervention. The hero attempts to change the impossible by risking everything for the woman he encounters. The idea of asking if someone has "...the decency to let him try" to save her shows the characters conflict with going against what fate had originally intended. This brings up the impact of human nature on the hero's journey taking the traditional archetype to a new level and how it influences the outcome. It can be inferred that this struggle against those above us, reveals the resiliency that humans truly have in the direst of circumstances. In the actual movie, I expect several unforeseen circumstances to arise as well as the archetype of devil figure in the form of the bomber to interfere with Captain Stevens plans. I also think that the past of Stevens will be revealed and affect his identity.
In what ways does the struggle to break free from fate reveal aspects of human nature?
Friday, April 8, 2011
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Mythology in Other Instances and its Connection to Human Nature
While searching for possible topics relating to mythology, I came across an interesting concept that really strikes at the heart of what I've been talking about on this blog. Upon researching this topic, I realized that they're many parallels between the beliefs and values of different cultures. The Creation myths of Japan are quite similar in aspects such as the symbols and meaning of the divine beings of Greek Mythology. The roles and personalities of these gods and goddesses are also closely linked in these cultures.
The creation myth of Japan explains how everything came into being in the world, especially how the Japanese islands were created. Of course with technology today, everyone realizes that the formation of these islands is not unlike Hawaii, in that the movement of tectonic plates as well as volcanic activity created these Japanese islands. The way this myth starts is that the two divine beings; Izanagi and Izanami were summoned to clear the void state that the earth was in at that time. As a gift, the rest of the dieties residing in what would be deemed "Heaven" gave these two divine beings a golden spear. Standing on the bridge between earth and heaven, Izanagi touched the spear against the chaotic realm, to find several great drops form. These drops fell to the swirling masses, creating the original islands of Japan. These divine rulers then gave birth to several deities, such as Kagutsuchi-no-Kami, the deity of fire, as well as Kukunochi-no-Kami, the deity of trees. The fact that these deities embody certain aspects; either elemental or societal closely aligns with Greek Mythology in that they believed their society was controlled by divine beings. As an interesting side note, the gods were also thought to have certain personality characteristics such as compassion or tolerance and anger or vengeance depending on the deity.
Now, the similarities between the two are more than just mere coincidence. The reason why this can be despite the vast difference in geographic location is that it’s simply an aspect of human nature. Throughout history, people have always made up theories of something that they really didn't understand at the time. People tend to do this because people are drawn towards a definitive answer even when there isn't one. This is also a generally accepted practice, because society today is built on trial and error. There are many things yet to be understood, and ideals that are modified and changed based on these predictions. This poses the bigger question of "what really defines human nature?"
The connections between the past and the present reveal that humans have also been inquisitive beings searching for answers in a world which we sometimes don't understand. Mythology can be seen as many as an outlet for explanations of things that confuse us or simply a belief system centered on the world. The parallels between the Greek and Japanese cultures within their belief system can be used to prove how we all come together on a common aspect. Regardless of the purpose of its creation, mythology not only highlights the similarities between us, but more importantly the differences. Is it true that individual goes against human nature, or that being an individual is actually what makes up human nature? It is these forms of media that make us question what our true purpose is, and what the meaning is of our lives. The importance of mythology and archetypes of the past is the relevance and implications it has towards our own worldview. That’s what I think makes mythology great. The symbols used not only connect people with the past, but also give insight of important aspects of society. What do you think are the effects of mythology and archetypes towards our daily lives?
The creation myth of Japan explains how everything came into being in the world, especially how the Japanese islands were created. Of course with technology today, everyone realizes that the formation of these islands is not unlike Hawaii, in that the movement of tectonic plates as well as volcanic activity created these Japanese islands. The way this myth starts is that the two divine beings; Izanagi and Izanami were summoned to clear the void state that the earth was in at that time. As a gift, the rest of the dieties residing in what would be deemed "Heaven" gave these two divine beings a golden spear. Standing on the bridge between earth and heaven, Izanagi touched the spear against the chaotic realm, to find several great drops form. These drops fell to the swirling masses, creating the original islands of Japan. These divine rulers then gave birth to several deities, such as Kagutsuchi-no-Kami, the deity of fire, as well as Kukunochi-no-Kami, the deity of trees. The fact that these deities embody certain aspects; either elemental or societal closely aligns with Greek Mythology in that they believed their society was controlled by divine beings. As an interesting side note, the gods were also thought to have certain personality characteristics such as compassion or tolerance and anger or vengeance depending on the deity.
Now, the similarities between the two are more than just mere coincidence. The reason why this can be despite the vast difference in geographic location is that it’s simply an aspect of human nature. Throughout history, people have always made up theories of something that they really didn't understand at the time. People tend to do this because people are drawn towards a definitive answer even when there isn't one. This is also a generally accepted practice, because society today is built on trial and error. There are many things yet to be understood, and ideals that are modified and changed based on these predictions. This poses the bigger question of "what really defines human nature?"
The connections between the past and the present reveal that humans have also been inquisitive beings searching for answers in a world which we sometimes don't understand. Mythology can be seen as many as an outlet for explanations of things that confuse us or simply a belief system centered on the world. The parallels between the Greek and Japanese cultures within their belief system can be used to prove how we all come together on a common aspect. Regardless of the purpose of its creation, mythology not only highlights the similarities between us, but more importantly the differences. Is it true that individual goes against human nature, or that being an individual is actually what makes up human nature? It is these forms of media that make us question what our true purpose is, and what the meaning is of our lives. The importance of mythology and archetypes of the past is the relevance and implications it has towards our own worldview. That’s what I think makes mythology great. The symbols used not only connect people with the past, but also give insight of important aspects of society. What do you think are the effects of mythology and archetypes towards our daily lives?
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Bobby Boucher and the Outcast Archetype
Ever since the film industry began, the archetype of a social outcast turned hero has been one known to instil hope in viewers. One movie that has been particularly effective in adapting this archetype is the 1998 movie The Waterboy with main protagonist Bobby Boucher; a waterboy for a college football team. Although this film is not widely recognized, it serves its purpose in delivering the message about the transition of an outcast. The main character gains the viewers empathy from the start because of his lack of interpersonal skills with others, making him the ideal target for the archetype of an outcast.
Before viewing the film, the viewer can assume the main character is an outcast just from looking at the title "waterboy." Defined as someone who caters to the team, as opposed to playing for the team; the waterboy is someone we can all relate to as someone who struggles socially and is perceived as different from the rest of the crowd. Thus, this person is usually mocked because of this position and exists outside the societal norm, always longing for a sense of belonging. Immediately, this character gains sympathy from the audience because of his position that is looked down upon by others. The fact that he is automatically deemed as inferior is why he is a perfect example of the outcast archetype.
Near the beginning of the movie, it is revealed that his desire to become a waterboy came from his father’s death from dehydration. To add to his troubled past, the protagonist also has hidden anger issues from the constant teasing he has suffered throughout his life. These elements are all major components of what makes a suitable and isolated outcast, as other characters are not easily prone to associate themselves with the outcast. After becoming the official waterboy for the University of Louisiana Cougars, the players constantly torment him and he is eventually fired by the head coach for "disrupting practices" due to his presence on the team. The constant stuttering of this character when talked to other only fuels the argument of the stereotypical outcast. Boucher lacks confidence and therefore is easily susceptible to being a scapegoat; meaning he takes the blame for things that weren't really his fault. This character also lacks the courage to fight back against his oppressors, which makes him the appropriate underdog in this story.
As the film continues, the audience begins to truly feel for the waterboy and wishes for his success. Like other outcasts, there is always a breaking point to which the character can withstand no more pressure from the peers around him. This occurs in the waterboy, when Boucher stands up for himself and channels his anger into football. Upon doing this, this makes him a fierce competitor in the football league, as he crushes anyone that stands in his way with lethal force. The common thing with outcasts is that people tend to underestimate the power they hold which can often result in undesirable consequences. Bobby Boucher also exhibits a deal of instability throughout this portion of the movie, as the viewer is uncertain what he will do next. That is part of the power of the social outcasts, as it puts everyone on edge as they are afraid of the unpredictability of that outcast unleashing the built up rage.
Up until this point, Bobby Boucher in the waterboy exhibits traits directly like any other outcast in any other given form of media. After the energy kept inside has exploded the majority of outcasts then become wanderers; destined to roam the earth because of the regret that still exists inside. Instead, following the logical path of most underdog stories, the character of Bobby Boucher overcomes obstacles such as his mothers’ protective nature as well as the odds against him to achieve continued success. This is not like other outcasts in films and media because normal outcasts don't have the confidence to achieve their true dreams.
This classic take on an ancient idea is effective because it takes this traditional archetype and relates it the real world and the audience. The outcast has relevance to the audience because they had experienced people like that in their everyday lives, adding meaning to the purpose of this film. The message I got from viewing this film was that an individual must learn to value what is different about them to truly find success in life. The outcast is usually a character that is pitied and mocked by others, but in this instance, the outcast inspires hope by speaking directly to the feelings of the audience. Although the plot wasn't the greatest, what I truly found inspirational was the personal connections that added validity to this form of media. In what ways does this archetype make an individual reflect on their own lives? Also, what does this change show about human nature?
Before viewing the film, the viewer can assume the main character is an outcast just from looking at the title "waterboy." Defined as someone who caters to the team, as opposed to playing for the team; the waterboy is someone we can all relate to as someone who struggles socially and is perceived as different from the rest of the crowd. Thus, this person is usually mocked because of this position and exists outside the societal norm, always longing for a sense of belonging. Immediately, this character gains sympathy from the audience because of his position that is looked down upon by others. The fact that he is automatically deemed as inferior is why he is a perfect example of the outcast archetype.
Near the beginning of the movie, it is revealed that his desire to become a waterboy came from his father’s death from dehydration. To add to his troubled past, the protagonist also has hidden anger issues from the constant teasing he has suffered throughout his life. These elements are all major components of what makes a suitable and isolated outcast, as other characters are not easily prone to associate themselves with the outcast. After becoming the official waterboy for the University of Louisiana Cougars, the players constantly torment him and he is eventually fired by the head coach for "disrupting practices" due to his presence on the team. The constant stuttering of this character when talked to other only fuels the argument of the stereotypical outcast. Boucher lacks confidence and therefore is easily susceptible to being a scapegoat; meaning he takes the blame for things that weren't really his fault. This character also lacks the courage to fight back against his oppressors, which makes him the appropriate underdog in this story.
As the film continues, the audience begins to truly feel for the waterboy and wishes for his success. Like other outcasts, there is always a breaking point to which the character can withstand no more pressure from the peers around him. This occurs in the waterboy, when Boucher stands up for himself and channels his anger into football. Upon doing this, this makes him a fierce competitor in the football league, as he crushes anyone that stands in his way with lethal force. The common thing with outcasts is that people tend to underestimate the power they hold which can often result in undesirable consequences. Bobby Boucher also exhibits a deal of instability throughout this portion of the movie, as the viewer is uncertain what he will do next. That is part of the power of the social outcasts, as it puts everyone on edge as they are afraid of the unpredictability of that outcast unleashing the built up rage.
Up until this point, Bobby Boucher in the waterboy exhibits traits directly like any other outcast in any other given form of media. After the energy kept inside has exploded the majority of outcasts then become wanderers; destined to roam the earth because of the regret that still exists inside. Instead, following the logical path of most underdog stories, the character of Bobby Boucher overcomes obstacles such as his mothers’ protective nature as well as the odds against him to achieve continued success. This is not like other outcasts in films and media because normal outcasts don't have the confidence to achieve their true dreams.
This classic take on an ancient idea is effective because it takes this traditional archetype and relates it the real world and the audience. The outcast has relevance to the audience because they had experienced people like that in their everyday lives, adding meaning to the purpose of this film. The message I got from viewing this film was that an individual must learn to value what is different about them to truly find success in life. The outcast is usually a character that is pitied and mocked by others, but in this instance, the outcast inspires hope by speaking directly to the feelings of the audience. Although the plot wasn't the greatest, what I truly found inspirational was the personal connections that added validity to this form of media. In what ways does this archetype make an individual reflect on their own lives? Also, what does this change show about human nature?
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