Latest Revision: 6/18/2024
“Even the most promising clues usually only lead to others.”
—William Somerset, Se7en
In the movie, Se7en, two detectives, William Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and David Mills (Brad Pitt), investigate a series of brutal murders that appear to revolve around a theme of the seven deadly sins. Although not explicitly listed in the Bible, in 590 AD, Pope Gregory I enumerated seven transgressions that are fatal to spiritual progress and they became a central tenet in Roman Catholic theology.1 It’s important to note that while everyone may experience all of these to some degree, the seven deadly sins relate to the extreme, habitual, and drastic adherence to these qualities.
Pride (Hubris/arrogance leading to disdain or disregard for others)
Avarice (Insatiable material greed)
Lust (Uncontrolled desires or cravings)
Wrath (Intense rage or hatred)
Gluttony (Excessive consumption of food and drink, insatiable appetite)
Envy (Resentment caused by another’s possessions, character, or achievements)
Sloth (Habitual and extreme disinclination to work or exertion)