Matrix
Discuss the significance and relevance of Plato's account of mimesis and the authenticity of the copy in respect of one of the following films: The Matrix. In your answer pay close attention to both the film's form and its content. The Wachowski brother's 'The Matrix' presents a world of illusion, where nothing is as it seems. A world created by computers, run by artificial intelligence. It draws strongly on Platonic theory by showing that only when this fake world is looked at from the outside, from an objective viewpoint, can it be understood, and only when this world of imitation is understood can it be overcome. The work of art in the contemporary world sees allegory, ie. the ability of the story to tell another point for point, as a crucial characteristic. This criteria allows for depth in the work beyond aesthetic, giving art various possible readings and interpretations and allowing the artist/director to retell a story and simultaneously put their own perspective on the tale. The sci-fi epic The Matrix is a prime example of this very post-modern trait. Several allegories are contained within The Matrix's structure and content. The obvious and relevant allegories that of Plato's cave.
Looking at the movie in regards to its similarities with Plato's text. (Each person has been reduced to the role of battery. As in Plato's story, it takes time for Neo to comprehend the Truth. Here, Neo is educated by Orpheous to see the Matrix for the computer program that it really is. They are there to make sure things remain as status quo, that no captive gets free. Now, some of this individuals are said to be aware of the world outside of the cave, and are conscious of the lies they are feeding to the captives about reality. Plato emphasises the recovery needed for his hero once he has entered this new intelligible realm. Plato begins by conjuring an image for his audience: people living in an underground place, like a cave. Plato's Theory of Film, internet source, class handout. They are restricted in their visions of the world by chains, and they have been there ever since childhood. Orpheous tells him, "it is the first time you've ever used them". "What if someone pointed out the dummies as they passed by, and obliged him to answer questions about what each one was?" The training programs which Neo undertakes reflect this stage of the story. So too with the martial arts program, where Orpheous challenges Neo to realise he is capable of being as fast as he wants to be.
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