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Chariots Of Fire Essay

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Chariots Of Fire Essay
In the film ‘Chariots of fire’ written by Colin Welland, and directed by Hugh Hudson, the viewers experience how the protagonists, Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell face many obstacles and must make some sacrifices in order to be successful in running their races. Both men are constantly trying to prove themselves, their worth and beliefs on the track. Both of the characters face stress, pain, defeat, victory and joy in their way to racing in the 1924 Olympic Games in Paris.
At the start of the film, Abrahams is quite an angry, aggressive and arrogant character which causes problems for him. Harold is a young Jewish man who feels like an outsider as he is judged and faces much discrimination because he is Jewish. Abrahams experiences anti-Semitism in the film, especially at the Cambridge College, however he makes a clear message that he will not tolerate being put down or being looked down on because he is Jewish. Harold is a well-motivated and determined athlete who strives to win. However, his arrogant and conceited attitude interfered with his way to success. When Abraham is beaten by Eric in their first official race, he takes it poorly, getting very angry and upset, and keeps replaying the defeat over and over in his memory. Harold even considers giving up running for good which would be a mistake based on his loss to Eric. Harold’s fiancé, Sybil helps him but telling him to try and beat Eric in his next race.
Eric Liddell is a Scottish Christian who runs for the glory of God. Liddell particularly faces the problem of his religion and running. Eric’s sister, Jennie disapproves of Eric pursuing competitive running. When Eric accidently misses a church prayer meeting, Jennie accuses him of no longer caring about God, and putting running before his religion. However, Liddell sees running is to honour God, as he believes God made him fast for a purpose to run. Eric is accepted to represent Great Britain in the Olympics, but he soon learns that the heat for his

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