SOC212H1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Darth Vader, Jack Nicholson, Swagman
Document Summary
Before the enlightenment brought us science, rationality, and an empirically bound reality, people understood life in terms of myths folklore, parables, stories. The ethical message of every major religion is supported y collections of historical or mythical tales in which various kinds of offences against the powers of creation, or against social regulation, happen. The offence is not always intended by or even known to the offender. The response of heaven and earth, however, is usually punitive unless mitigated by ritual reconciliation. The deviant character is frequently more likeable and sympathetic than characters who teach and correct. He is usually masculine but also gender bending in many tales, he shockingly violates many of the customary norms of honest, mannerliness and loyalty. Robin hood, zorro, and the jolly swagman who figures in australia"s unofficial nation song waltzing matilda : these characters are deviant but entertaining.