“The Book of Mormon” is a multifaceted tool in the exploration of modernizing religion. The ideas that are explored include ties between religion and identity, and acceptance – of both diversity of lifestyle and diversity of religion. This musical piece also explores the effects of satirical and comedic approaches to religion in theatre and the effect that that application has on the discussion surrounding religious theology. 

 

Like many, Elder Price, one of the main characters of the show finds himself questioning his identity as both an individual and as a member of his religious community. Throughout the events that occur, Elder Price battles with his faith as something that defines him as a person.

 

The pinnacle of this moment of self discovery is demonstrated in the song "I believe". Although this musical discusses theology in an unconventional manner, using irony, and often brash comedy to discuss religion the musical (and the song "I Believe") demonstrates the ability ot question and create new interpretations of religous scripture. It also establishes the point of religion being a point of identity for many people. 

 

Often the ability to believe in the extraordinary is one of the hardest challeges that people face when asked about their belief in a religion, this musical demonstrates that belief there is a duality between personal identity and religous identity.

 

Looking at the modernization of popular culture, individualism has become more apparant in social cultures and in religous cultures. The result has been a broader adaptation of what it means to be a memeber of a religous communtiy, and each person displays their identity in their own unique way.

 

Another important aspect of this musical that has been touched on briefly is the use of comedy and irony. Althoug this is far from the "regular" kind of religous sermon that is usually experienced, the musical acts as a topic of debate. Creating a launchpad for debates about the ins and outs of religious community, and about acceptance within the church, The Book of Mormon questions everything from the acceptance of LGBT members of society into the curch community (i.e."Turn it off", a hyperbolic song from the musical), to the acceptance of scripture as a concrete and non-adaptable set of rules. 

 

Even though The Book of Mormon may not stay within the prescribed peramaters of talking about Mormonism, since its release The Church of the Latterday Saints has adopted The Book of Mormon as a tool to reach out to the masses, and answer questions about faith.

 

 

 

 

"And yet, at a time when more and more artists seem to entirely avoid difficult topics for fear of being shot down by the online outrage machine,The Book of Mormon seems more daring and refreshing now than it did even four years ago at its premiere. Somehow creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have found the sweet spot in their reflection on the evils of the world – a comfortable seat somewhere between outrageous and outraged."

-The Globe and Mail

(19/09/2014)