Unveiling Worlds: Lessons from His Dark Materials (Also Me)

 

If you're in search of a captivating fantasy series that not only entertains but also challenges your thinking, consider giving "His Dark Materials" a watch. This TV adaptation of Philip Pullman's acclaimed trilogy, which premiered in 2019 on HBO and BBC, follows the journeys of two young protagonists, Lyra and Will, as they navigate parallel worlds and uncover a cosmic conflict involving enigmatic forces, magical creatures, and influential establishments.

The series isn't just a visually stunning display of special effects and action sequences; it also serves as a profound source of philosophical and ethical inquiries that resonate with our reality. Below are some insights we can glean from "His Dark Materials," along with the debates it has sparked within certain religious circles.

The Debate Surrounding "His Dark Materials":

While "His Dark Materials" has garnered critical praise and widespread popularity for its storytelling and production excellence, it has also encountered criticism and controversy from specific religious groups who perceive it as a challenge to Christianity in general, and Catholicism in particular. The series is based on Pullman's trilogy of novels, which he's characterized as "a story about challenging the notion of a benevolent creator." Pullman's intention has been to offer an alternative perspective on reality that diverges from the belief in a benevolent deity.

In the series, God (referred to as The Authority) is depicted as a feeble and despotic figure who has misled humanity into venerating him. The Magisterium is portrayed as a tainted and oppressive institution that wields its authority in the name of God. The series also questions fundamental Christian doctrines, such as original sin (which is depicted as a positive force), salvation (achieved through human endeavor rather than divine grace), and resurrection (denied by demonstrating the absence of an afterlife). Additionally, the series promotes atheism (by asserting that God is unnecessary), humanism (by illustrating that humans can forge their own purpose and morality), and sexuality (by presenting it as a natural and wholesome expression of love).

Certain religious groups have decried "His Dark Materials" as sacrilegious, heretical, and potentially harmful, particularly for young audiences. They've accused Pullman of advocating for atheism and diminishing Christianity, especially Catholicism. Some have called for boycotts and the prohibition of both the books and the TV series. For instance, in 2007, the Catholic League launched a campaign against the film adaptation of "The Golden Compass," alleging that it promoted atheism and attacked Christianity, especially Roman Catholicism. In 2008, the series ranked second in the top 10 list of books that individuals and organizations sought to have banned in the United States, according to the American Library Association. In 2013, a Catholic school in Ontario, Canada, banned the series for being perceived as "anti-Catholic."

However, not all religious groups have responded negatively to "His Dark Materials." Some have commended it for its inventiveness, imagination, and moral messages. Some have also defended it for its artistic liberty, intellectual stimulation, and spiritual exploration. In fact, some have found parallels and affinities between Pullman's vision and their own faith traditions. For instance, some Anglicans have welcomed Pullman's critique of organized religion and his emphasis on individual conscience. Some Jews have identified with Pullman's utilization of Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism) and his celebration of diversity. Some Buddhists have resonated with Pullman's rejection of rigid doctrine and his affirmation of interdependence.

Key Lessons from "His Dark Materials":

Challenge Authority and Pursue Truth:

One of the central themes of "His Dark Materials" is the significance of questioning authority and seeking truth, particularly in the face of oppression and deceit. The main adversary in the series is the Magisterium, a religious institution that governs much of the world and suppresses any knowledge conflicting with its doctrine. The Magisterium is willing to resort to violence, torture, and propaganda to uphold its dominance and silence dissent. Lyra and Will, however, are propelled by curiosity and bravery to uncover the universe's secrets and expose the Magisterium's corruption. They receive assistance from various allies who share their quest for liberty and enlightenment, including witches, armored bears, scientists, and rebels. The series encourages us to challenge authority and seek truth, even if it entails defying the established order and risking our well-being.

Embrace Diversity and Foster Tolerance:

Another valuable lesson from "His Dark Materials" lies in the recognition of diversity and the promotion of tolerance. The series portrays a multiverse where various worlds coexist, each possessing its own customs, history, and inhabitants. Some of these worlds resemble our own, while others are vastly distinct. For instance, in Lyra's world, every human is accompanied by a daemon, an animal companion representing their soul. In Will's world, daemons are nonexistent. In another world, intelligent beings called mulefa have wheels in place of feet. The series underscores that despite these disparities, a shared humanity unites us all. Lyra and Will learn to honor and value each other's worlds, as well as those of their allies and adversaries. They also learn to collaborate and communicate with different species, including angels, specters, and harpies. The series imparts the lesson of embracing diversity and fostering tolerance, rather than fearing or harboring animosity toward what is unlike us.

Take Responsibility for Your Actions and Their Ramifications:

A final takeaway from "His Dark Materials" pertains to our accountability for our actions and their repercussions. The series delves into the concept of Dust, a mysterious substance linked to consciousness, free will, and wrongdoing. Dust also serves as the source of power for numerous devices and phenomena in the multiverse, including alethiometers (truth-revealing instruments), windows (gateways between worlds), and subtle knives (implements capable of cutting anything). However, Dust also possesses a dark aspect: it attracts specters (creatures that feed on souls) that prey on adults; it inflicts pain and anguish on those separated from their daemons; and it poses a threat to the multiverse's equilibrium if mismanaged. The series emphasizes that our actions carry consequences that impact not only ourselves but also those around us. We must exercise caution in how we wield our power and knowledge, as well as how we treat other sentient beings. We must assume responsibility for our actions and their outcomes.

"His Dark Materials" is a fantasy series that has enraptured millions of viewers with its enthralling narrative, characters, and messages. It has also sparked contention and discussion within certain religious circles, who perceive it as a challenge to their convictions and principles. Whether you align with or oppose Pullman's vision, you can still appreciate "His Dark Materials" as a piece of art that invites you to contemplate your own perspective and encounters.

Peace Out