Discuss in writing thoroughly, thoughtfully and in depth three (3) major points made in the reading material handouts. Your post should capture the key points of the handouts as well as your assessment and reaction.
-Study Question: Respond thoroughly, thoughtfully and in depth in writing to one (1) of the Study Questions (see below).
-Film Critique: Critique the film including in your written response the title of the film, subject of the film, theme of the film (a theme is the point that the film is trying to make – the message it is trying to communicate), the point of view of the filmmaker, and at least three (3) things you learned from the film. Also include your personal reaction to the film and an overall summary evaluation of it.
Study Questions:
1. What is the most common Pagan image of time? How does that compare with the image of time found in mainstream western religions?
2. How is the Pagan image of time honored and celebrated in Pagan ritual circles?
3. Does the holographic view of the universe support the Pagan image of time or that found in mainstream western religions? Explain.
4. How does the holographic view of the universe address such phenomena as ghosts, hauntings, fairies, and precognition?
5. If time is conceived as circular rather than linear, does this mean that the future is frozen and completely predetermined, or can it be changed? Explain.
6. How does the holographic view of the universe relate to the topic of reincarnation?
7. Based upon the readings, do you think that it is possible for humans to create their own destiny?
8. What is the purpose of Pagan rituals and celebrations?
9. Based upon the numerous definitions of ritual in the handout, craft your own definition of ritual.
10. What is a typical pattern of ritual? What are the parts of ritual? What are their purposes?
11. What is the theory of correspondences? How is this incorporated into Pagan ritual?
12. What is a ritual circle? Why do Pagans conduct rituals in circles? How is a ritual circle made?
13. What is the significance and purpose of ritual robes and other ritual garb?
14. What is the Pagan relationship to their deities? What do Pagan deities ask of humans? How does this contrast with the monotheistic view of deities and their relationship with humans?
15. What is the central concept of polytheist religious practice? Explain.
16. Where, according to archaeology and history, was ancient Pagan celebration conducted? In terms of the social setting of worship, where were the oldest Pagan celebrations centered?
17. What is the Pagan concept of sacrifice? How does this contrast with the monotheistic ideal of sacrifice? How does the Pagan idea of offering contribute to the idea of reciprocity?
18. What purpose do images of the deities serve for Pagan celebrations? How does the use of images reflect the nature of the Pagan deities?