1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

The Existential Joss Whedon: Evil and Human Freedom in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly, and Serenity was written by J. Michael Richardson and J. Douglas Rabb and published by McFarland and Company in 2006.

This ambitious book takes a look at the parallels between the Whedonverse (the collective fantasy worlds created by Joss Whedon) and the views of various existentialist philosophers such as Lev Shestov, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Jean-Paul Sartre.

The writing style of this book is straight-forward and fairly easy to understand, despite occasional esoteric wording (e.g. ontological, phenomenological) which is to be expected in a book dealing with existential philosophy. The concepts presented may be familiar to those who have read other existentialist essays, particularly those of Sartre and Dosteoevsky, but are well explained for those who have not.

Keeping in mind that the authors cannot speak for Joss Whedon's actual intentions (and do not claim to), this book makes for a thought provoking read. Like other essays on Joss Whedon and his various series, this book opens the door to possible parallels that viewers may not have previously considered. In this instance, the parallels are drawn between the Whedonverse and well-known existential writings, both non-fiction and fiction works.

All of Joss Whedon's fictitious worlds to date are included in this book. Examples are taken from the Buffyverse - which includes the Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel TV worlds - as well as from the Firefly/Serenity universe. This allows the authors to present some interesting ideas about the similarities and contrasts that span the entire Whedonverse.

While most readers of this book are likely to have watched Joss Whedon's various shows, explanations (and/or brief synopses) are given for those who are not familiar with the particular episode or character being discussed. This can be helpful to refresh a viewer's memory or as an explanation to those who are not familiar with all of Joss Whedon's shows.

Likewise, clear explanations are given of the existential philosophers and writings presented. This makes it easy to understand the parallels presented even for readers who are not familiar with the existential works described. Each of the works discussed are listed in the bibliography for further reading.

Topics explored in this book, often involve examinations of moral choice and personal freedom. In Chapter three, Buffy, Faith, and Bad Faith: Choosing to be the Chosen One, the

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Book reviews: The Existential Joss Whedon, by J. Michael Richardson and J. Douglas Rabb?
We want to hear your view. Write now!