John Paul II: The Millennial Pope A bold and innovative biography on this controversial world leader, is a journey through the 20th century to the sources of John Paul II’s character and beliefs and the passionate reaction to him. It’s a journey that says as much about us as it does about him. Produced by
John Paul II: The Millennial Pope
A bold and innovative biography on this controversial world leader, is a journey through the 20th century to the sources of John Paul II’s character and beliefs and the passionate reaction to him. It’s a journey that says as much about us as it does about him.
Produced by Helen Whitney
Execute Producer for FRONTLINE: Michael Sullivan
Senior Executive Producer for FRONTLINE: David Fanning
Drawing on interviews with those who have studied and analyzed John Paul II or, whose lives have intersected with his, it offers insights into the major themes in his life: the shaping influence of Polish culture and history, his relationship with Jews, his part in the fall of Communism, his opposition to liberation theology, his repudiation of the ordination of women, his battle to convince the world, especially the West, that it must save itself from sinking into a “culture of death.” And, finally, John Paul II’s fierce insistence on faith.
The program weaves a biographical narrative through several thematic chapters. The first chapter, “Landscape,” draws a portrait of the powerful emotional and spiritual landscape of Poland that formed Karol Wojtyla.
The chapter “Jews” looks at Karol Wojtyla’s remarkable relationship with Jews.
The “Solidarity” segment shows how Karol Wojtyla’s life was entwined with the Communist domination of Eastern Europe.
The “Women” segment explores the connections and contradictions between John Paul II’s devotion to the ultimate embodiment of womanhood–the Virgin Mary–and his conflict with women over the issues of birth control and the ordination of women as priests.
“The Culture of Death” chapter explores Pope John Paul II’s dark vision of our modern age and his relentless campaign to convince the world to save itself from sinking into a “culture of death.”
The final thematic segment of this report is “Faith” and it is journey to the heart of what ultimately defines this pope–his religious faith.
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