Representations of Satan: An illustration of the devil in American cinema

Representations of Satan addresses the depictions of Satan within American films. Because the theme of evil is vast, I focus on representations that specifically relate to the Christian notion of Satan. Films made during the years 1968–2000 are discussed. It is argued that the various illustrations of the Devil in film have worked to diminish the power of Satan within a religious context. Also, it is concluded that the depictions stem from medieval Catholicism. The three diabolical themes explored in this thesis are: (1) the lineage of Satan and the need to procreate; as comedic hero.