Teological
The ancient Greeks could recall complex arguments and huge sagas by great feats of memory. They used either places or imaginary buildings to help remember these massive compositions. This representational tradition was to form the basis of the art of rhetoric and even Western literature and science there after. From a tradition of correlation, classification and representation comes realistic simulation and then prediction. Leading to freedom from the environment and ultimately control over it.
There has been a seemingly logical progression of power from ancient times up until now with the onset of Virtual Reality. VR is seen as the ultimate form of simulation providing newer levels of personal control and interaction.
In this teological tradition it is possible to see this in the expression of narratives during this time. There has been a changing emphasis of freedom and agency within the narratives: The sagas of Homer told of men at the mercy and whim of the Gods, later the development of the Christian religion provided narratives with a belief system that allowed more personal volition and personal responsibility.
In the present day information and replication are produced at the speed of light. Narratives reflect this change as they are expressed in multitudinous ways but interaction, freedom and entertainment are paramount. For example a complex computer adventure game allows the player a high level of interactivity and freedom.
- Do modern technologies also allow for even greater emancipation in the world at large?
- Are the new interactive technologies in some way redressing the balance of archaic power relationships so that levels of direct response and creativity are engendered through narrative?
