In this episode, we delve into "Tra anarchia e cristianesimo: la rivista D.M.C.D./CR.AN. e il movimento cristiano-anarchico," a 2019 master's thesis by Andrea Babini from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia.

Babini's work examines the Christian-Anarchist movement in Italy during the mid-1970s to mid-1980s, with a particular focus on the magazine D.M.C.D./CR.AN.. The thesis explores the historical context of the movement, shedding light on how key thinkers such as Jacques Ellul, Karl Barth, and Ivan Illich sought to reconcile the seemingly opposing ideals of Christianity and anarchism. Babini also investigates connections between Christian anarchism and other religions, including Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism, offering a rich and interdisciplinary perspective.

The analysis of D.M.C.D./CR.AN. forms the heart of the thesis. Babini details the magazine's editorial history, contributors, and topics, highlighting its role as a crucial platform for discussing themes like non-violence, anti-militarism, pacifism, and critiques of ecclesiastical power. The thesis showcases how figures such as Massimo Pistis, Giovanni Spedicati, and Eugen Galasso contributed to advancing discourse on libertarian and anti-authoritarian interpretations of Jesus's Gospel message.

Ultimately, the thesis underscores the challenges and potential of reconciling Christianity—centered on faith in a transcendent God—and anarchism, with its focus on human-centered political activism and rejection of hierarchies. Despite these challenges, the Christian-Anarchist movement sought to bridge these systems by emphasizing shared values such as freedom, justice, and love.

Join us as we explore how this minority movement—and the magazine D.M.C.D./CR.AN.—created a space for revolutionary ideas, keeping alive a vital conversation on social justice and equality.

Read the full thesis here: https://morethesis.unimore.it/theses/available/etd-03112019-202112/

In this episode, we dive into "Superheroes and Shamanism: Magic and Participation in the Comics of Grant Morrison" a 2011 thesis by Timothy Bavlnka from Bowling Green State University.

Bavlnka explores how comic book writer Grant Morrison blends magic and storytelling to blur the line between fiction and reality. Through concepts like sigils and shamanic experiences, Morrison’s work invites readers to actively participate in the narrative, becoming part of the heroic journeys of characters like Superman.

We also discuss Morrison’s portrayal of the Joker, examining how this chaotic character reflects the fluid boundary between fiction and reality, and how actors like Heath Ledger have embodied this complexity. Morrison’s post-structural approach, metaphysical themes, and deep connection with his audience turn his comics into participatory experiences, where fans uncover hidden meanings and engage with the text on personal levels.

Tune in to discover how Morrison's magic transforms the superhero genre—and iconic characters like the Joker—into something much more profound.

Read the full thesis on EBSCO: https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=fd747f97-b523-3bd4-8a23-be4e3d1693b6

How does Beowulf relate to puppetry?

In this episode, we explore "Bloodthirsty Fiends" a 2017 thesis by Alison Jo Reid for the University of Texas at Austin. Reid combines puppet technology with the ancient epic Beowulf to create an original play for the Cohen New Works Festival. Featuring a 22-inch marionette of Beowulf, a 4-foot puppet of Grendel, and a massive 9-foot walk-around puppet of Grendel’s Mother, this production reimagines the classic tale. Reid uses both traditional sculpting techniques and modern laser cutting to breathe new life into the story, questioning Beowulf’s heroism and giving Grendel’s Mother newfound depth and agency.

Tune in to learn how puppetry transforms this timeless epic into a fresh, thrilling spectacle.

Read the full thesis on Ebsco: https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=31a33714-9600-3d06-bd5e-3be8e75de380