Citation

O'Brien C. Literature and Theology 2012; 26(1): 93-105.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012)

DOI

10.1093/litthe/frr057

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The tale of two foul-mouthed Irish contract killers hiding out in Belgium may initially appear incompatible with the writings of Saint Augustine of Hippo (354-430), the Latin Father of the Church. However, this article argues that Martin McDonagh's film In Bruges (2008, UK/USA) has the dimensions of an Augustinian drama, addressing themes raised in the theological epic City of God, including eschatology, sin, suicide, war and the nature of suffering. In 107 minutes - rather than the voluminous pages of Augustine's magnum opus - In Bruges offers an opportunity for its protagonists to ponder on some of life's most vital questions. © 2011 The Author. Published by Oxford University Press 2011; all rights reserved.

Language: en