Movie:  The Mission

Starring:  Robert DeNiro and Jermey Irons

1986 Best Picture:  Cannes Film Festival

 

“The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it”.   John 1:5

 

  1. When and where does the film take place?  _______________________________

 

  1. How do the Jesuits convert the Guaranee?

 

 

 

  1. What was Captain Mendosa’s job?

 

 

 

 

  1. Why does Mendosa kill Felipe?  What happens to him after he kills his brother?

 

 

 

 

 

  1. What is the penance  (penalty or way to seek forgiveness) for Mendosa’s way of life?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Who releases Mendosa from his penance?  Why does he accept?   What is the reaction of the natives?

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. How does the Mission combine native and modern ways?

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Explain the issue surrounding Don Cabasa, the Bishop, the Jesuit Missions and the native peoples.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. How was the Bishop introduced to San Miguel and San Carlos?  What was his reaction?  Why?

 

 

 

 

  1. What did the Bishop want the native people to do?  What was their reaction?

 

 

 

 

  1. What does Rodrigo decide to do when the war begins?  Why?  

 

 

  1.  Explain the reaction of the soldiers to the war. 

 

 

 

  1.  What happens to the mission?

 

 

 

  1. How does the Bishop respond to the merchant’s comment “this is the way the world is”?

 

 

 

  1.  What do the natives take at the end?  Why are they naked?

 

 

 

  1.  In your opinion, did the Mission have a positive or negative effect on the natives?  Explain