Why Religion?

The Remarkable Work and Life of Elaine Pagels

Elaine Pagels in front of window

A Film by Jenny Mackenzie

Why Religion — Typewriter Hero

Bring Elaine's story to your .

Why Religion? is an intimate glimpse into the life of American historian of religion Elaine Pagels.
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MEET ELAINE

The historian who changed how we understand early Christianity.

For more than 40 years, Elaine Pagels has challenged conventional understandings of Christianity, faith, and history. Her groundbreaking book The Gnostic Gospels invited generations to question what they thought they knew.

Why Religion? explores the discoveries, losses, and enduring curiosity that have shaped her extraordinary life.

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Director @jennymackenziefilms and Elaine Pagels at @aspenfilm discussing production. Jenny’s mother and Elaine are dear friends which made the production process an intimate and transformative experience for everyone. Learn more about the fil
In 2015, Elaine Pagels was awarded the National Humanities Medal by President Barack Obama in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to the study of religion and early Christianity. For decades, Pagels has challenged conventional understand