The Christian Imaginary of Sons of Anarchy

In this article, I explore how the FX series Sons of Anarchy employs a Christian apocalyptic imaginary. Focusing on the use of rearticulated kinship language, struggles with the place and power of women, and the bloody disposal of enemies as the route to an idealized future, I demonstrate parallels between the world envisioned by the canonical writings of the early Christian church and the fictional world of Charming, California. I also assess how the friction between apocalyptic/anarchic ideals and institutional structures functions similarly in first century Christianity and in SAMCRO (Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Original). Finally, I look at the ways in which the series appropriates common Christian symbols such as the Eucharistic table, the book, and the cross in an American pop culture format.