Constraints In Kingdom Of Heaven

In the movie, Kingdom of Heaven, set during the time period of the Crusades there are a number of scenarios that showcase the importance of an individual over constraints of society and religion. This is brought to the viewers attention in the first scene of the film; as a woman committed suicide. In the eye of the church suicide is a sin, yet this woman chose to end her life over staying true to the church. Disputes with constraints of society and religion are showcased often in this film, through the world of the main character Balian. As previously stated, early on the film showcases rebellion against religion. The woman who had committed suicide, was Balian's’ wife. Balian discovers that the priest had ordered she be beheaded, as suicide is a sin for their religion. Upon learning this, Balian kills the priest, throwing his body to a pit of fire. This animosity Balian felt towards the priest overshadowed his knowledge of what was right in his religion, as an individual, he saw this was the right thing to do. Balian later escapes to Jerusalem, (the holy land) in seek of forgiveness for the sins of both him and his wife, due
Guy wants to cause dispute and war with the Muslims, while Balian strives for peace. Balian is asked by Baldwin to execute Guy, resulting in Balian becoming king. Balian refuses as he knows this is morally wrong, but Guy has no trouble sending assassins to kill Balian. Guy is determined to get rid of Balian and do what he believes is right for society; which is start war with the muslims. Although, society may not agree with Guys’ opinion in this matter, Guy puts his individual judgement over those of his people. This duel over peace and war (and Sibylla) ceases with Balian defeating Guy and peace reigning. Balian not settling to the constraints of a portion of society wanting war, yet upholding his individual yearn for peace, caused peace in the Holy Land and for the