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How Does Walt Disney Present Simba As A Christ Figure

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How Does Walt Disney Present Simba As A Christ Figure
RLG332H
Reel Religion T.A.Ian Brown Prof. Ken Derry

The Lion King By: Vanessa Figliomeni
998308987
Saturday February 21st 2015 2495

Walt Disney’s, The Lion King is a thought provoking film, which when carefully viewed, allows the audience to identify the religious connotations linked to it. In terms of the meaning of the film, The Lion King presents Simba as a human, heroic Christ figure as part of the films justification of violence under the necessary circumstances of defeating Scar, in order to ultimately save the kingdom. In this aspect, the films representation of Simba as a Christ figure strongly relates …show more content…
Although he is not king, and he is not respected by the animals of Pride Rock like Mufasa is, the hyenas respect Scar, as they have begun to follow and support him. In this aspect, Scar has created an authoritative position for himself. He has always been jealous of his brother the ‘king’ and resents Simba for biologically being next in line for the throne. By gaining the respect of the hyenas, Scar is able to lead them. However, this does not satisfy him, as he makes it his own mission to get rid of Mufasa and Simba once and for all. First, Scar encourages Simba to visit the dangerous elephant graveyard. Once Mufasa comes to his rescue, Scar tries a second time by allowing Simba to be chased by the stampede of animals. As Mufasa saves Simba once again, Scar is happy to see that Mufasa is killed in the process. Finally, when Scar makes Simba run away, he sends the hyenas after him knowing that his father won’t be able to come to his rescue for a third …show more content…
This film is filled with multiple hidden messages and acts which reflect the life and journey of Jesus Christ. It is quite interesting to watch and think deeply about the religious connotations of the film, which may be difficult for one to identify if they do not pay close enough attention. The film depicts Simba as a Christ figure, as it applies various Christ images to him. The lion King expresses Simba as a scapegoat, depicts him having followers and suffering, it shows Simba connecting to his father through prayer, experiencing conflict with authority and as an adventure hero. Through The Lion King Simba is presented as a heroic Christ figure that embodies many human attributes as he learns, and grows throughout his life. Simba’s role as Christ is used to justify the films use of violence under the conditions of overthrowing Scar and restoring Pride
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