Orthodoxy in Dialogue is publishing this call for papers as part of our Faith & the Arts series. The editor of the proposed volume has expressed an interest in including one or more Orthodox contributions.

Theology and Pop Culture is currently seeking contributions for an edited volume from Rowman and Littlefield on the intersection of theology and Star Wars. Essays may focus on any of the films, TV series, books, and other media that comprise the Star Wars universe. Essays should be written for academics, but avoid “jargon” to be accessible for the layperson.

Potential ideas include but are not limited to:

• The theology of hope and hopelessness in the journey of Luke Skywalker;
• Theological reflection on the Force from the standpoint of multiple religious traditions;
• Feminist theological perspectives on the characters of General Leia, Rey, Jyn Erso, and others;
• Theologies of redemption in the arc of Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader;
• Theology of friendship as demonstrated by Han Solo and Chewbacca, and others;
• Liberation theology throughout the Star Wars universe, with attention to the sequel trilogy (Episodes VII-IX);
• Force ghosts/spirits and theologies of death and resurrection;
• “Use your feelings”: The theology of emotion in the Force;
• An analysis of Jedi and Sith religion;
• Fresh theological exploration of the work of Joseph Campbell, upon which George Lucas based the original trilogy;
• Any other theological reflections on the Star Wars

If interested in contributing to this volume:

1. Please submit an abstract of between 300-700 words with CV or resume, including a list of previous publications, to editor Ben Espinoza at theologyandstarwars@gmail.com by December 1, 2018.
2. Notification of acceptance will be by January 1, 2019, and the deadline for drafts of accepted papers is May 1, 2019.

Ben Espinoza is a PhD candidate in the Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education (HALE) program at Michigan State University in East Lansing, where he is also pursuing a certificate in Chicano/Latino Studies. His research interests cut across the areas of culture, spirituality, and education. He has written for journals such as the International Journal of Christianity and Education, Bulletin of Ecclesial Theology, Christian Education Journal, and Journal of Biblical and Theological Studies. For more information on his interests and activities see his personal website.

Orthodoxy in Dialogue seeks to promote the free exchange of ideas by offering a wide range of perspectives on an unlimited variety of topics. Our decision to publish implies neither our agreement nor disagreement with an author, in whole or in part.