The Mission Movie Theme

1. Identify two themes of the movie and link them to particular parts of the movie

Two themes from The Mission movie that stand out to the viewer are ambition and forgiveness. The Guarani’s were ambitious in the case of keeping their mission standing and fighting off their enemies. The Guarani’s did not give up while being attacked by the Portuguese. Their ambition kept them going until the end of the fight. Although it ended with the missions being destroyed, they put up a good fight for what they believed was the best for their people. The Jesuits people forgave Captain Rodrigo Mendoza for his sin for killing his brother. Another sign of forgiveness was shown when Captain Rodrigo Mendoza arrived at the top of the mountain; the indigenous

people forgave Mendoza by laughing at him and group hugging him. The indigenous people show forgiveness by these actions.
2. What does this movie tell us about the Jesuit order and their role and place in both Europe and the New World?
The Jesuits had a lot of control and power over the New World while keeping ties with Europe. In order for the Jesuits to keep control of their power of both the New World and of Europe they had to sacrifice the missions in the New World in order to keep the Jesuit order powerful in Europe.

3. Why did the papal representative make the decision that he did to close the missions?
The papal representative made the decision to close the missions because he had to make a decision that would help the economy of Portugal and Spain. Even though the Cardinal felt sympathy for the indigenous people, he had to make a choice that would better benefit his people rather indigenous people.

4. Evaluate this decision and discuss whether or not you believe it was the right decision?
I believe that the Cardinal did not make the correct decision because rather him help the Indigenous people whom are in need, he chose to help his own people who were just looking for money. He did not look at the situation from a humane point of view, but instead looked at it from an economic point of view. I would have chose to help the indigenous people because I believe all humans have equal rights to live no matter color, race, or beliefs and they should not be forced to relocate based on these qualities.