SWOSU Digital Commons

The Dimensions Of Damnation: Redefining the Geography and Spatial Boundaries of Hell in Modern Entertainment

This presentation delves into the intricate exploration of the spatial boundaries of Hell in modern fantasy literature and its diverse mediums. By analyzing the works of renowned authors and creators, this research aims to shed light on how they challenge and redefine traditional notions of Hell’s physical geography, examining the possibilities for escape, transcendence, and alternative realms within Hellish settings. Moreover, it investigates the profound influence of the creators’ worldview and religious views on the spatial depiction of Hell. Through a multidimensional analysis, I will delve into specific examples across a variety of media forms, such as literature, graphic novels, television, movies, and gaming. Neil Gaiman’s Sandman graphic novel series, Clive Barker’s The Hellbound Heart and its film adaptation Hellraiser, the television series Lucifer, and the video game Dante’s Inferno serve as exemplary case studies, showcasing the diverse approaches in reshaping the geography of damnation. This presentation highlights how the creators’ worldview and religious views inform their depictions of Hell, influencing the concepts of punishment, redemption, and the possibilities for transcendence within Hellish settings. By exploring the spatial boundaries of Hell, this presentation uncovers the intricacies of the human imagination and its ability to challenge conventional narratives, inviting readers, viewers, and players to question traditional conceptions and engage with the moral dilemmas embedded within these Hellish realms. The findings of this presentation contribute to the scholarly understanding of the modern fantasy genre, providing fresh insights into the complex relationship between spatiality, religious beliefs, and creative expression.