The Dramatic Meaning of Sacrifice: Hans Urs von Balthasar’s Theological Insights

Theological Drama: The Sacrificial Crisis and the Passion of Christ

In a groundbreaking theological work, Hans Urs von Balthasar delves into the dramatic significance of tragedies that feature the death of the hero as a sacrificial crisis. According to Balthasar, these stories reflect the fullest dramatic meaning of the Passion of Christ, where good violence is necessary to overcome bad violence.

Drawing on the work of René Girard, Balthasar highlights the primal tragedy of the scapegoat, where an innocent victim is violently sacrificed by a unanimous mob. This theme, present in myths and literature, reveals the dark origins of violence and the need for a sacrificial crisis to bring about peace.

Girard’s mimetic theory, influenced by Nietzsche, explores the role of ritual scapegoating in human culture. While Nietzsche celebrates violence, Girard’s theory debunks myths and emphasizes the repudiation of the scapegoat mechanism. However, Girard’s theory lacks room for natural theology, raising questions about the dignity of human reason.

Despite its limitations, Girard’s emphasis on literary interpretation offers a unique perspective on the human condition. By exploring themes of violence and sacrifice in literature, Girard uncovers the complexities of human nature and the search for peace amidst chaos.

Ultimately, the sacrificial crisis depicted in tragedies serves as a powerful metaphor for the Passion of Christ. Through the dramatic death of the hero, the story reveals the necessity of good violence to overcome the evils of bad violence. This insight, as recognized by Balthasar, sheds light on the profound theological truths embedded in human history.

In a world plagued by violence and conflict, the exploration of sacrificial themes in literature and theology offers a path towards understanding the complexities of human nature and the search for redemption. As we grapple with the dark origins of violence, the stories of sacrifice and heroism remind us of the transformative power of good violence in overcoming evil.