The Role of Symbolism and Secret Societies in Dan Brown’s Movies

Adapted from his best-selling novels, Dan Brown’s films are full of complex symbolism and hidden societies that heighten the sense of intrigue and mystery.  From ‘Angels & Demons’ and ‘Inferno’ to ‘The Da Vinci Code’, these components are essential to the gripping stories that enthrall viewers everywhere.

The core of Dan Brown’s narratives is symbolism.  Robert Langdon, the main character, is a symbologist who interprets religious symbols, old writings, and artwork to reveal hidden meanings.  Langdon’s search for the Holy Grail is guided by symbols found in Leonardo da Vinci’s paintings in ‘The Da Vinci Code’.

 While ‘Inferno’ decodes hints from Dante Alighieri’s ‘Divine Comedy’ to avert a worldwide calamity, ‘Angels & Demons’ investigates the Illuminati’s secret signals within Vatican City.  As viewers attempt to solve the riddle with Langdon, these symbols captivate them like intellectual puzzles.

Image Courtesy: Patheos

In Brown’s films, secret organizations are central, frequently serving as the masterminds of historical conspiracies.  While the Illuminati in ‘Angels & Demons’ seeks retribution against the Catholic Church, the Priory of Sion in ‘The Da Vinci Code’ is said to guard the secret of Christ’s lineage.  Since many of these covert organizations have historical origins, they lend a feeling of realism that makes it harder to distinguish fact from fiction.

 Dan Brown’s films challenge our perceptions of history and belief systems by fusing symbolism and secret societies into gripping storylines.  These components not only add excitement to the movies but also pique viewers’ interest in the deeper meanings of the world.

–Farheen Ali