Introduction

The introductory chapter explains how the book offers a philosophical exploration of moral psychology in concert with doing film criticism. The benefits for virtue ethics and film study are the result of the interplay between movie interpretation and philosophical theorizing about moral character. The nature of virtue and vice is then discussed, distinguishing virtues that provide motive and purpose (such as generosity) from those which enable us to execute our plans and achieve our purposes (such as patience). The virtues and vices considered in this book are distinctive in that they are self-regarding, primarily about the self and the relationship we have with ourselves. The structure of the book is then sketched, noting which virtues and vices are examined in conjunction with their relevant films. The chapter concludes by articulating the narrative affinity that holds between understanding moral character and cinematic representations of people and their actions.