The Field

Description

"The Field" is a WW1 drama based on the biblical story of Judas' betrayal of Jesus - moving the events that led up to Christ's crucifixion from the outskirts of Jerusalem to the trenches of Northern France.

In this context, Jesus' disciples become an English Platoon on the front line - twelve infantry soldiers led by Peter, their captain - accompanied by a field medic, Christopher (the Jesus character) as well as a War Artist: Jude. The forces of the Roman Empire are represented by the opposing German troops.

The story will focus on these hugely dramatic events from Jude's perspective as protagonist. Judas is the archetypal betrayer, his name having become synonymous with "traitor". However, rather than merely painting him as a villain, we aim to create a deeply complex antihero, who is torn by the decisions that he makes; someone who intentionally sells out his comrades for his own personal gain, but later feels so much remorse that he ends his own life.

I believe that this story is universal - and deeply relevant to our modern times; the themes of conflict, betrayal and forgiveness still resonate now as much as they ever did.

Biblical Connection

JUDAS FACTS: - The gospel accounts all vary in detail - but all four identify Judas Iscariot as "the betrayer" when they first mention him. - The name Iscariot means “man of Kerioth” - meaning that he was the only Apostle that was not from Galilee. - John says “Satan entered into him.” - He served as treasurer for the Apostles which meant he carried the money bag. John tells us that he was dishonest and that he often stole money out of the bag. - Judas received payment for his betrayal. - Judas was present at the Last Supper. Jesus tells his disciples that one of them is going to betray him. Soon afterwards, Judas got up and left to do so! - In the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus had been praying, Judas arrived with a mob of people carrying swords and clubs. - Judas had told the chief priests that the one he embraced would be Jesus - so they would know who to arrest. Judas approaches Jesus and greets him with a kiss - and Jesus is arrested. - Later, Judas was so full of remorse that he committed suicide, by hanging himself from a tree.