REPRESENTATION OF RELIGION IN THE CONTEMPORARY SERIES: BASED ON THE ANALYSIS OF MESSIAH, THE BOYS, RAISED BY WOLVES, MRS. DAVIS AND RIGHTEOUS GEMSTONES SERIES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31392/cult.alm.2026.1.3Keywords:
TV series, religious experience, analysis of film form, narrative, empathyAbstract
This article examines the scholarly problem of religion’s representation in contemporary TV series as a cultural phenomenon that shapes public perceptions of religious experience in a post-secular world through stereotypes and simplified narratives. The aim of the study is to analyze the representation of religious ideas, experiences, and critiques of religious manifestations/traditions in five series from 2019–2025 (Messiah, The Boys, Raised by Wolves, Mrs. Davis, and The Righteous Gemstones). The methodology is based on four hermeneutical lenses: the series as a religious experience, a manifestation of reality, a political-economic narrative, and a therapeutic experience. The analysis of key scenes reveals that the series emphasize individual spirituality, family traumas, and post-religious ethics, often negatively portraying institutional religion. A conclusion is proposed that contemporary series model secular religiosity, fostering dialogue about faith while simultaneously reinforcing stereotypes in attitudes toward religious themes.
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