Notes on John Oliver's Presentation about The Da Vinci Code
Introduction
John Oliver discusses The Da Vinci Code, a novel by Dan Brown and its film adaptation.
He humorously addresses the audience's potential skepticism regarding the relevance of discussing a 2003 book in 2021.
Main gripe: the overly simplistic solution to the titular puzzle.
Overview of the Plot
Jacques Saunière, an old man, is murdered in the Louvre.
Before dying, he leaves art-related puzzles for Robert Langdon, a symbologist.
The puzzles reveal a significant secret about Jesus Christ that the Catholic Church has hidden.
Collaboration with Saunière's granddaughter, Sophie.
Antagonists include Interpol, radical Catholics, and an assassin.
A race across Europe to solve art puzzles and uncover the truth.
Key Elements of the Puzzle
The titular puzzle involves interpreting a poem.
Poem includes references to Sir Isaac Newton and an "orb" that refers to an apple.
John criticizes that the puzzle is overly simplistic and should be solvable by a child, contrasting the portrayal of Robert Langdon as the only capable solver.
Cultural Impact
The Da Vinci Code was a massive success:
136 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.
Over 80 million copies sold and translated into 51 languages.
John reflects on the absurdity of this success and the cultural phenomenon surrounding the book.
Critique of the Book
John expresses frustration over the book's simplistic puzzles and the cultural obsession it inspired.
He addresses the audience's discomfort during his presentation, emphasizing the absurdity of the book's popularity.
Concludes that the original code is simply "Apple" (A-P-P-L-E) and criticizes the way it was presented in the narrative.
Final Thoughts
Oliver raises questions about societal tendencies to embrace simple ideas without critical thought.
Encourages viewers to engage with his critique and reflect on the book's impact.
Acknowledges the audience's endurance through the presentation and humorously reminds them they could have turned it off.
Conclusion
Thanks the audience for watching and announces the return of the show in February.