The basic story of the film is that during World War II president Roosevelt charged a group of men, led by Americans but including those from allied nations, to “protect western cultural heritage” during the war. This protection was necessary not only because culturally valuable places were under siege, but many precious pieces of art had been confiscated by the SS. Additionally, Hitler made a decree to destroy every work of art they had confiscated in the event the Nazis lost the war, or Hitler was killed.
At the beginning it is clear that the “Monuments Men” as they named themselves, should do everything in their power to save these works—but would stop short at risking human life. Even the Monuments Men agreed: it is only art, after
all.
Initially, many of those whom the Men encounter believe that preserving art is a waste of valuable time and resources. However, as the film progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that the art (or more specifically what it
represents) is precisely what the war is being fought over. In order to install his own culture, Hitler knows he must own or destroy the current one.
As Christians, we are not chasing down precious works of art, however we are in our own fight to save our culture and
heritage. A critical piece of that fight is the arts. Christians are scarce in fine arts—dance, drama, music, film, and writing. We have segregated our artistic works and the result has been less than spectacular quality. What a
shame. Christians historically have had the best art. All the truly great artists (those known by just one name long before Beyoncé!) were all Christians. Beethoven signed every composition “Soli Deo Gloria.”
As followers of Jesus, let’s take the arts back. And let’s begin with a return to the standards of Truth Goodness and Beauty, as they are taught within the classical Christian framework at Trinity Christian School.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Jeanne Wilks
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23-24).