Oitnbible creators and contributors Jo Merrygold and Lucy Skerratt make direct comparisons from the OITNB series to the Christian Bible:
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There are no purely good/innocent people, even those in high, influential positions; Just as there is no pure angel nor demons.
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Prison staff who represent the obedience to the law, abuse their authoritative positions to benefit themselves.
Ex. Natalie Figeroa- Embezzlement
John Bennet- Sexual relations with an inmate
Sam Healy- Misogynistic councillor -
Likewise, biblical heroes with great clout also act against their beliefs,
Ex. King David- Bad father
Moses- Murderer
Noah- Incest -
"It's safe to say there are blurred lines wherever we stand."
"Using the hit Netflix show OITNB as a catalyst to re-read biblical texts. We're an academic project tackling perception and prejudice, using our research in biblical studies for wider social change, empowering minority groups and fostering an inclusive community in order to make a difference."
"Taystee is the New Ruth"
(Kennedy, 2016)
Catherine Kennedy analyzes the ways in which the relationship between Naomi and Ruth in "The Book of Ruth" of the Old Testament, and Vee and Taystee of season 3 OITNB.
Naomi/Vee:
-Both find their way into trouble
-Irresponsible
-In the end, cares primarily for herself
-Manipulative
Ruth/Taystee
-Obedient despite being aware of criminality/status
-Neither seek pity
-Going to Israel/prison are not in their interests, but put roof over their head (in compliance to Naomi/Vee)
"So in this analogy, you're Jesus Christ?"
In season one, Pennsatucky is often found proudly preaching to a group of like minded, white women; with encouragement from her anti-abortionist supporters on he outside, Pennsatucky truly believes she is a prophet sent by God to deliver his word. Despite the teasing from other prisoners such as Janae Watson (Vicky Jeudy), Piper, and Alex, Pennsatucky fights to prove her beliefs and influence others to convert to Christianity.
In this clip, Pennsatucky shares the perspective that reflects the structural hierarchy of Litchfield Penitentiary to the Bible, where yours truly, is the hero.
"Norma-ism"
Norma Romano (Annie Golden) is an inmate at Litchfield who typically existed as a wallflower, (particularly within the first season) much owing to her severe stutter that as a result, qualifies her as a mute. However, being unable to clearly speak does not keep her from communicating with others; through facial expression, a notepad, and her affirming touch, Norma spreads kindness and warmth upon others.
Through flashbacks, we learn that at a young age Norma joined a spiritual cult ran by their leader, Guru Mack, whom of which she blindly fell in love with, and devoted herself to him for most of her life despite realizing his sense of spirituality was fraud. Guru Mack took Norma for granted and ultimately abused her emotionally, despite being his only true follower. Norma, although patient and forgiving, was pushed beyond her limits by Mack's insults, and in the realization that perhaps there is no God, she shoved him off a cliff. Norma was charged with manslaughter and ended up at Litchfield.
In season 3, Norma finds herself as the leader of her own group of worship when other inmates believe she has special blessing powers. Her followers work very hard in legitimizing their new found religion, but at the same time, they also hurt others through exclusion for having different ideologies in relation to Normaism. When conflicts build up, and consequences occur, Norma returns to the realization that maybe there is no God.
"Her image has been emblazoned by the universe unto toast!"
Season 3 Episode 13: "Trust No Bitch"
The inmates are blessed by the discovery of a hole in the fence surrounding the prison. Since the guards walked out on the Warden, the women are granted the perfect opportunity for a breath of freedom
