Homer the Heretic...sort of...

In light of this week’s in class screening of The Simpsons episode “Homer the Heretic” (season 4, episode 3), I would like to examine the series’ cynical take on American Christianity. Although this episode aired in almost 20 years ago, The Simpsons, now in its 23^rd season, continues to present religious content, substantiating claims such as that quoted by Professor Harris that the animated series is the most religious show on television. However, although many wouldn’t argue this point, the manner in which the Christian faith is presented is the focus of much debate, often leading to stern criticism from religious groups, while likely contributing to its wild popularity…after all there is a fine line between fame and infamy. In an article entitled The Gospel of Homer, published in the Ventura County Star, the Rev. Francis Chan is quoted as saying that The Simpsons “makes anyone who follows God look like a fool” (Kisken). Despite coming across as extreme, I feel that many critics adamant on protecting the Christian faith may share this belief and, in their defense, their position is not completely unfounded, as demonstrated in the following clip:

Reverend Lovejoy, Springfield’s bible quoting Protestant pastor, is frequently ridiculed in the show and, at first, this may seem like a low blow to Christians (Lewis 153-165). However, as one becomes more familiar with Lovejoy’s character, it is clear that this pastor is more a man of words than faith, which some critics claim is attempt to highlight the flaws of organized religion (Lewis 153-165). Although this was the general theme of the episode viewed in class, I don’t believe it was the intention of it’s writer, George Meyer, or writers of other episodes for that matter, to discredit those who believe in God. Rather, by having Homer refuse to go to church, Meyer tackles an important issue surrounding the practice of the Christian faith. Many practicing “Christians” in the United States go through the motions of saying grace and paying lip service at church on Sunday, something the Simpsons did as a family prior to Homer’s revelation in “Homer the Heretic” (Lewis 153-165). However, is this sufficient to be considered “religious”? In my opinion, certainly not. Furthermore, when he decides to stop going to church, does God turn away from him? No, he doesn’t.

Ultimately, it seems that the message Meyer, and The Simpsons in general, is trying to convey is not that American Christians are foolish but rather that the acts of false devotion that many partake in are meaningless. After all, is Ned a good Christian only because he goes to Church every Sunday?....

Works Cited:

Kisken, Tom. "The Gospel of Homer." Ventura County Star 04 Sep 1999, n. pag. Web. 22 Jan. 2012. <http://www.snpp.com/other/articles/gospelofhomer.html>.

Lewis, Todd. "Religious Rhetoric and the Comic Frame in The Simpsons ." Journal of Media and Religion. 1.3 (2002): 153-165. Print.