The New World- Duncan Owen

     Released in 2005, The New World depicts the journey of chartered ships arriving from England to what would eventually be known as Jamestown in Virginia. One of the captains, John Smith, is captured by Native American Indians and held as a prisoner. Set to be killed, the chief’s daughter, Pocahontas, threw herself on Smith and saved him. Eventually, Pocahontas and Smith fall in love and begin a relationship. Pocahontas was advised that this relationship between herself and Smith would be beneficial for both sides, but eventually, conflict emerges between the Native Americans and the English Settlers. As a result, Smith is forced to choose between staying in Virginia with Pocahontas or going back to England, a decision that he grapples with and eventually regrets. 

    Additionally, within the film, viewers watch the differences in adaption between Pocahontas and Smith. While Smith adapts easier in being held as a prisoner, viewers witness Pocahontas struggle to mold into the English style of living with structure and formality. 

    One of the biblical elements that The New World shares throughout its narrative and plot, is Pocahontas embodying the verse “love your neighbor as yourself”. Despite being from different countries and having differences, Pocahontas sacrifices herself initially to save an innocent man.


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