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Passion plays, which date from the Middle Ages, are dramatic re-enactments of the trials and crucifixion of Jesus. The events in the life of Jesus from the Last Supper until the Crucifixion, commonly referred to as "The Passion," are the central narrative of the Christian faith. We found an excellent archived NPR piece by Barbara Bradley Hagerty that traces the history of Passion plays, beginning in central Europe in the 12th century. Local churches performed Passion plays in village squares as proselytizing tools and plain old entertainment. Sadly, they are also inextricably linked with
centuries of Jewish persecution. It's important to note that the religious connotation of "passion" is etymologically sound. While the word often connotes a state of frenzied activity, it can also refer specifically to the suffering of Jesus Christ. Mel Gibson's celluloid Passion play showcased this suffering, generating heightened feelings from fans as well as critics.
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