Dear WORLD: "Agora"

Dear WORLD [magazine],

I have come across a new film which I wanted to bring to the attention of your readers and staff. The film will release on October 9th 2009 and is called "Agora." Below are some pertinant links regarding the film and the historical significance of its subject matter:

1: the teaser trailer on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u50zEun07b4

2: the full trailer on traileraddict.com: http://www.traileraddict.com/trailer/agora/feature-trailer

3: The film's IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1186830/

4: Wikipedia article on Hypatia (played by Rachael Weiss): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypatia_of_Alexandria

5: Wikipedia article on the Library of Alexandria: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_of_Alexandria

6: Advanced review from Variety: http://www.variety.com/index.asp?layout=festivals&jump=review&reviewid=VE1117940282&cs=1



I feel it is very important for WORLD to do an article about this film for a variety of reasons. Number one is the fact that it will undoubtedly stir controversy over the darker history of Christianity as a force against "reason." Probably the most important reason why this film is worth examining is it appears (at a glance through wikipedia) that the events depicted in the film are true.

Frankly, I'm a little worried about this movie and how this little known (to me) historical event will create further animosity toward the Christian faith and its followers. I am afraid that the film will likely modernize the events and motivations of the characters to glorify the "pegan" acheivments and victimizations of Hypatia while equating this horrific event with the teachings of the Bible (aka Christianity). It is no secret that we are in the midst of a culture war, and this film will likely be at the forefront of that conflict for a little while.

I feel that your magazine would be a good place to examine the many issues raised by this historical event and film. I suggest a researched and thoughtful article covering (at least):

1: What actually occured surrounding the two main events of the film (Hypatia's death, and the destruction of the Library of Alexandria)--who was involved, why it happened, [perhaps the accuracy of the film's depiction?]

2: What can christians do in the face of such radical deviations from Jesus' teachings being tauted as Christian behavior--by the perpetrators themselves, and also the filmmakers (likely).

3: what does it mean to us and the world when "Christians" do these things? What makes a Christian?

4: Do we as christians give credence to such actions by other Christians? Why should we be worried when it's clear that they were not following God's will (or were they?).

5: Do we as christians and individuals have a responsibility for what happened to Hypatia or any other atrocities at the "hands of God"? To whom would we reconcile and for what? For that matter, how would we go about reconciliation?

6: How should we respond (or react internally) to constant accusations that Christianity is a judgemental, destructive belief system? Does this film pose such an accusation?

7: Given that the events truly happened, what would (should) have been the appropriate response of the Christians involved to the apparent conflict? What can we do today to prevent this from happening again.

8: What can we do today to repair the hateful image so many have toward God as a result of our own sins? --What are christians doing right in this world in a macro-sense?

9: Some information about the filmmakers, cast and crew and their motivations behind the movie. Any evidence of agenda? Or is this purely a "historical fact" piece?



I don't believe it would have been right for this film to skert around the involvement of Christins in the tragedy, or the pertinance to conemporary events. In fact, I believe this is an important story to bring into the light for christians, because these are important questions I think.

Nonetheless, since researching this event I have been struggling with our connection as Christians to others who call themselves Christians. The world takes us at face value and watches us closely. I feel so overwhelmed with the vast history of abuse and violence from the "church" and the many others who claim faith in God. It is tragic to me that it has resulted in the nausiating image of Christians and Christian belief so many non-believers have--and then pin on God himself. In this culture war, I have to constantly remind myself that God is engaging with each and every human being in existence no matter what beliefs they have or what the state of their worldy culture is. He is working with each of us, beyond the traps and pitfalls which pull us away from him.

Anyway, I hope this request isn't too long, and I hope you find a way to make it happen and help christians and non-believers alike to better understand this and other historical events like it, and what they mean for us.

I should mention that i don't think an "expose' " is what I'm driving at, but rather a full fact check, and all-around guide to the problems and questions which will arise as this story becomes more prominant in our society.


Thanks for your time!

Cade Loven
Decorah, IA