Is midsommar about paganism?

Is Midsommar about Paganism?

Midsommar, a 2019 film directed by Ari Aster, has been the subject of much speculation and debate regarding its portrayal of paganism. While the film’s title and imagery may evoke images of ancient pagan rituals, it is essential to examine the film’s themes, symbols, and narrative to understand whether it is indeed about paganism.

What is Paganism?

Before delving into the film, it is crucial to define what paganism is. Paganism is a term that encompasses a broad range of religious and spiritual beliefs that do not conform to traditional Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, Islam). Paganism can include practices and beliefs from ancient cultures, such as shamanism, animism, and nature-based spirituality. In modern times, paganism can manifest in various forms, including Wicca, paganism, and druidism.

The Film’s Portrayal of Paganism

Midsommar, set in Sweden, follows a group of friends who travel to a remote village to attend a festival, only to find themselves in the midst of a sinister pagan cult. The film’s portrayal of paganism is multifaceted, blending elements of folk horror, mystery, and psychological terror.

Ancient Pagan Practices

The film’s narrative draws inspiration from ancient pagan practices, such as the midsummer festival, which was celebrated in Scandinavian cultures. The festival was marked by feasting, dancing, and the worship of fertility deities. Midsommar’s portrayal of the pagan cult’s rituals, including the maypole dance and the burning of effigies, are nods to these ancient practices.

Symbolism and Imagery

Aster’s use of symbolism and imagery in the film is another indicator of its pagan themes. The use of flowers, particularly the blooming of the hawthorn tree, serves as a symbol of fertility and rebirth. The film’s color palette, dominated by shades of yellow and orange, evokes the warmth and vitality of the summer solstice. The pagan cult’s rituals, often accompanied by eerie, pulsing lights, create an atmosphere of hypnotic trance and communal worship.

Subversion of Pagan Expectations

While Midsommar’s portrayal of paganism may seem to conform to traditional expectations, the film ultimately subverts these expectations by presenting a dark, sinister, and even malevolent interpretation of pagan practices. The cult’s rituals, far from being peaceful and celebratory, are marked by violence, torture, and human sacrifice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Midsommar may not be a straightforward depiction of paganism, it is undeniable that the film draws inspiration from ancient pagan practices and symbols. Aster’s use of imagery, symbolism, and narrative serves as a commentary on the darker aspects of human nature, rather than a straightforward exploration of paganism. As such, Midsommar can be seen as a subversive interpretation of paganism, one that challenges traditional expectations and presents a complex, nuanced portrayal of human nature.

Table: Key Symbols and Imagery in Midsommar

Additional Resources

• Aster, A. (Director). (2019). Midsommar. [Film]. A24.
• Tidholm, J. (2020). Midsommar: The Film That Got Me Hooked on Paganism. Retrieved from https://www.buzzfeed.com/juliandavidtithalm/midsommar-the-film-that-got-me-hooked-on-paganism
• Pagel, S. (2020). Is Midsommar about paganism? Retrieved from https://www.patheos.com/blogs/sarahpagel/2020/08/is-midsommar-about-paganism.html