Close Textual Analysis

In order to understand the bigger picture, it is sometimes best to look at small examples from within that given subject, in order to increase our knowledge. This is exactly what the method of close textual analysis attempts to do. This method has been defined by Dr. Sigler from the University of Minnesota as, "a detailed interpretation of a passage... showing how the details of the text relate to the central theme of the story". For this episode of South Park, titled "Ginger Cow", I will be applying the close textual analysis for two scenes within the episode, in order to demonstrate how it relates to the overall story. 

The overall plot of the episode is a play on religion, as this "holy cow" becomes famous all over the world, many different religions flock to South Park as part of their Holy Pilgrimage. Everyone believes that this cow is part of a prophecy which signals the end of the world.  The first religious sect to appear in the episode is a group of Rabbi's from Israel, and Kyle (who is Jewish) is called into the office to "translate" for them. The scene begins with Kyle opening the door, standing next to them; the principal and counselor then explain to Kyle that they are on a very important trip, and he must do his best to translate the messages from Hebrew to English. A comedic effect is achieved when the Rabbi's are able to speak perfect English, but the counselor and principal still can't understand them. This is a satirical strategy meant to exemplify the ignorance of the population in their small community, which is effective. 

The next major scene from the episode is when the Jews, Christians, and Muslims all congregate in order to agree on the terms of Armageddon. The scene takes place inside of a ballroom at a hotel with the Muslims on the left, the Christians in the middle, and the Jews on the right. The meeting begins with a ban on automatic weapons, shanks, and chemical weapons, which immediately causes an uproar between the Muslims and Christians. South Park does a great job with their comedic effect, as the leaders from each group call out their demands, the rest of their respective group shouts and yells with support... no matter how ridiculous it may be. The most important aspect of this scene, however, is when one of the Muslims stands up and claims that since the red cow is prophesied throughout all three religions, it may signify unity instead of war. This prompts everyone to agree that sacrificing the cow would finally bring peace between the religions. I believe this example is meant to show the absurdity of violence based upon religious beliefs. Despite the differing religions, all of the entities believe in basically the same thing. That God has given us guidelines for how to live our lives, and that these guidelines are meant to create peace in the world. And yet despite these similarities, people lose their lives over religious disputes all over the world. By sacrificing the cow to create unity, the writers are making fun of how small those differences are, and how insane it really is to be fighting and killing over these religions that are created in order to provide good for the world.

Source: Sigler, Carolyn. "Close Textual Analysis EssayEssay Due February 7, 2006." 3906 Close Textual Analysis Essay. University of Minnesota Duluth, 7 Feb. 2006. Web. 12 Apr. 2016.