Atheists and Gods in Fiction: Understanding Hercules and The Prince of Egypt

Atheists generally understand how fiction works. Namely, that the work in question is not purporting to depict reality and therefore some license was taken. When you watch one of those movies, you understand the gods involved are fictional. They still show up just like any other fictional character in a movie. Depending on your religion, it's one or the other, or both.

Are Christians Different?

Do Christians watch different versions of Hercules and The Prince of Egypt where only their God shows up? Those are movies intended for entertainment. Nothing else. We have no problem watching them because we can tell the difference between fantasy and reality.

Mythology and Entertainment

As an atheist, I was greatly entertained by Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Xena: Warrior Princess, The Ten Commandments with Heston, Prince of Egypt and many more. Just because I don't believe that a god or gods exist doesn't mean I won't read about them. It's just mythology, and these stories are entertaining content grounded in ancient tales.

Motivation and Enjoyment

When you watch these stories as an atheist, there's no need to compartmentalize fictional gods from fictional or legendary characters. As long as the audience can understand the context and recognize that these are works of fiction, there's no issue. The enjoyment comes from exploring the narrative, characters, and cultural significance, much like any other piece of entertainment.

Why Fictional Gods Matter

For those who believe in a religion, these stories are often seen as a way to explore the mythological roots of their faith. However, for atheists, the presence of gods in the narrative is just a part of the story. It's important to recognize that these characters, whether they are gods or legendary figures, serve a purpose in the narrative and are often used to convey important messages or values.

Whether you are an atheist or a theist, understanding that fiction is not meant to be taken as literal truth is crucial. It allows for a broader appreciation of these stories and their place in cultural history.

Conclusion

No matter your belief system, fiction is a powerful tool for storytelling and cultural exploration. For atheists, understanding the fictional nature of the gods in stories like Hercules and The Prince of Egypt allows for a richer and more fulfilling experience. Whether you watch these movies, read the stories, or explore the cultural significance, the key is recognizing that these are works of fiction designed to entertain and enlighten, not to provide a literal historical account.