Money Changers in the Temple: Evil Bankers in Literature and Film (original) (raw)

AI-generated Abstract

The paper explores the representation of bankers as villains in literature and film, analyzing the historical criticism of usury from Aristotle to contemporary depictions of greed and moral corruption. It draws connections between literary figures such as Patrick Bateman in "American Psycho" and historical Christian teachings, presenting a narrative that highlights the detrimental societal impacts of a profit-driven mentality prevalent in the banking industry. The author discusses the psychological detachment of these characters from human empathy and suggests a moral reckoning in light of modern economic crises.