Snowdon - 1/28/22 - Reflections on Black Robe

 1/28/22


On Dr. Redick’s recommendation, I watched Black Robe today. I started off with my interest fairly piqued already, because last semester I wrote a research paper and gave a lesson on the first contact between the French and the Native American nations which they quickly got involved with in modern-day Canada and the New York area, for a class about teaching history. In the process of that, I made some references to the historical figures referenced in this film, like Samuel de Champlain, and with regards to the Jesuits in particular, Paul Le Jeune. With that in mind, I went in wondering: How will this film portray the interaction between the literate and non-literate cultures?


I also had the thought that, really, no way could be called wrong properly, because in the research I did I found a wide variety of opinions, some argued for aggressive proselytizing among a savage people, others had respect for the Native population, and others still, though Christian themselves, criticized the French for their conduct. I think the dichotomy between Father LaForgue and Daniel was a great representation of how no party involved was monolithic.


I was also really struck by two scenes in particular, when Father LaForgue showed writing to Chomina, and when Father LaForgue practiced self-flagellation. The former was a great example of how the practice of writing was understood in the minds of both those who were acquainted with it and those who were not, and how it reflects the opposing mindsets which result. The latter scene identifies this issue of philosophy even moreso, as when LaForgue sees Daniel sexually involved with Annuka, it shows how the younger of the two has embraced a more natural worldview with less inhibition, while the priest feels the need to punish himself despite not being directly involved, evidence of his high-minded (literate?) ideals.

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