Deep Talks | Cultural Theology with Paul Anleitner

Dr. Chris Green | Christianity & The Complicated Cowboy Myth: Jesus, John Wayne, & Masculinity

Mar 27, 2023

Explore the impact of cowboy archetypes and myths on American religion and masculinity, the complexities of biblical narratives, the celebration of violent heroes, and the role of Christ as the ultimate hero. Discover the importance of imagination, compassion, and the role of fathers in shaping individuals. Delve into the challenges of young men in Christian communities and the call to engage in reflecting on Christian meaning.

01:37:38

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Quick takeaways

American western myths shape popular culture by presenting contradictory values and portraying Native Americans as both threats and saviors.

Hunter heroes in popular narratives, like Wolverine and The Mandalorian, resonate with audiences and influence their perception of biblical stories.

A nuanced reading approach is crucial to navigate the complexities of heroism and violence, appreciating the tension and layers within narratives and engaging with them critically.

Deep dives

The Complexity of American Western Myths

American western myths are deeply complex and entangled narratives that shape the collective imagination. They present contradictory values and explore the entangled nature of different virtues and vices. Films and books like those featuring John Wayne and Native American characters play significant roles in shaping these myths and influencing popular culture. These stories portray Native Americans as both threats and saviors, representing chaos and order simultaneously. The heroes in these narratives are flawed but also serve intercessory and prophetic roles, protecting the weak and innocent. It is important to approach these stories with a nuanced understanding and appreciate the multifaceted nature of these mythologies.

Introduction

2min

The Power of Stories and Myths

25min

Christianity and Culture: Finding a Mediating Pathway

24min

The Complex Character of David and the Myth of Redemptive Violence

31min

The Role of Christ as the Ultimate Hero

5min

Imagination, Compassion, and the Role of Fathers

6min

Exploring Young Men, Masculinity, and the Sermon on the Mount

3min

Encouragement to Engage and Reflect on Christian Meaning

2min

Has the archetypal cowboy hero of the Western film corrupted American religion and infected generations of Christian men with toxic masculinity, or is the role of these formative stories and heroes more complicated? What should we make of the relationship between Jesus and John Wayne?

Dr. Chris Green joins me today to help us wrestle with the complexity of these issues and the important ramifications of our culture's guiding stories on how we read the Bible, do politics, think about the role of police and soldiers, and how we rightly esteem heroes.

Chris Green is Professor of Public Theology at Southeastern University (Lakeland, FL) and Director for St. Anthony Institute of Theology, Philosophy, and Liturgics. He is the author and editor of a number of books, including most recently All Things Beautiful: An Aesthetic Christology.

https://www.cewgreen.com/

Today's episode is also available on video at:
https://youtu.be/sE130bXDHro

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