

Fantasy and Fascism
10 snips Oct 1, 2020
Join history teacher Stefan Sasse, who specializes in fascism, and journalist Damien G. Walter as they delve into the unsettling connections between fantasy worlds and authoritarianism. They discuss how 'Star Wars' reflects ideological threats and the moral complexities of the Jedi. Exploring 'Game of Thrones,' they analyze Daenerys’ fall from heroism to tyranny. The conversation also critiques superhero narratives and their ties to fascist themes, underscoring the urgent need for critical engagement with power and storytelling in both fantasy and reality.
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Fascism's Subtle Symbol Corruption
- Fascism corrupts cherished national symbols, making it hard to spot early.
- People often recognize it only in adversaries, not on their own side.
Jedi Power Corruption
- Jedi’s shift from peacekeepers to army leaders corrupted their ideals.
- Exercising power beyond mandate risks abuse despite initial good intentions.
Daenerys' Controversial Turn
- Daenerys burned King’s Landing after being dared to spare or kill civilians.
- Fans were shocked and divided over her sudden turn to darkness.