The Last Samurai (2003) Director: Edward Zwick Edward Zwick is the director of other Hollywood epic period films, like Glory (1989) and Legends of the Fall (1994). The Last Samurai was nominated for several Academy Awards (predictably) but in more recent years the film has not met favorable reviews. The Last Samurai is very loosely … Continue reading The Last Samurai
Author: Great Books Guy
Jesus and John the Baptist Briefly Mentioned in Josephus
Yosef ben Matityahu, better known by his Latin name Titus Flavius Josephus ("Josephus"), was a Jewish warrior, politician, and documentarian particularly of the early 1st century Jewish wars against the Romans. He came from a wealthy family in Jerusalem. In his twenties he was sent to help negotiate with Roman Emperor Nero for the release … Continue reading Jesus and John the Baptist Briefly Mentioned in Josephus
On the Nicene Creed
In my recent survey of early Christian writings a recurring theme has emerged from the early church: the question of authority. Who holds claim to the true theology? What does it mean to be a heretic? Which are the authoritative gospels? As time went on, there became a desperate need to institutionalize the new faith … Continue reading On the Nicene Creed
Perception in Aristotle’s On The Soul
Aristotle's On The Soul (or "De Anima" as the Latins later transcribed it) addresses the question of what it means to be alive. It explores the self-organization of all natural and living things, from the perspective and perception of an observer. The text is a qualified addendum to the Physics, and its corollary is a short … Continue reading Perception in Aristotle’s On The Soul
Pity and Promises in The Franklin’s Tale
The test of a great story is whether or not it is a true representation of reality. The various themes explored in The Canterbury Tales point us to the question of a good marriage, the most fitting employment in life, and the nature of knowledge (can a good clerk also be a good person?) and … Continue reading Pity and Promises in The Franklin’s Tale
For Your Eyes Only
For Your Eyes Only (1981) Director: John Glen For Your Eyes Only has often earned itself a reputation as one of the less goofy Roger Moore Bond films, but that isn't really saying much. After the science fiction, and at times cartoonish style of Moonraker, the director and producers wanted to bring the next James … Continue reading For Your Eyes Only
