July 27, 1918 - Civilization

Mary attended an unnamed movie last night, another movie this evening, this time with her best friend Dorothy ("Mrs. Jos. L. Kernan") to see Thomas Ince's Civilization.  "It was quite a wonderful picture and I enjoyed it to a certain extent."

Civilization was first released in 1916 and is a Christian-themed pacifist film initially intended to support and encourage the United States' neutrality and avoidance of any involvement in the war in Europe.  It begins with a Prologue: "Civilization has been misnamed in our modern times.  Not until Hatred - Greed - Envy is plucked from the heart of men can we hope for Universal Peace - for Civilization.  Can we call ourselves civilized when we shut our eyes against the command of the Prince of Peace? 'Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself?'  Picture his agonized soul as he views the mangled bodies of thousands that strew the battlefield, - of desolate homes and ruined lives.  If only those who would profess to follow Him, would practice what they preach, we would at last see the rising dawn of Civilization.  To that noble band of earnest workers, who are bravely striving to bring about everlasting  Peace, this Picture is humbly dedicated."

Civilization was Thomas Ince's second of three pacifist propaganda films of the time.  It is available to view in its entirety on YouTube.  A nice summary is available at the Library of Congress.