20 May 2012

Uncommon Commentary #267: Giving New Meaning to the Term “Dumb Show”

On several occasions, the cable television network Planet Green has broadcast a program titled The Da Vinci Shroud.  Curious as to what on Earth it might be about, I went to the capsule description, which reads: "Experts examine if the Shroud of Turin could be the work of Leonardo Da Vinci."  I've heard very many stupid things, but this may belong in the Top Ten.  There is more evidence for the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin (which is thought, correctly, to be the burial shroud of Christ) than for the guilt of most men executed for murder, but even persons who consider this relic a forgery think that the forgery took place in the High Middle Ages (ca. 1000-1300), centuries before the birth (1452) of Da Vinci.  Needless to say—Although if that's true, why am I saying it?—I didn't watch.  Planet Green will change its identity on Memorial Day, but it's possible that The Da Vinci Shroud will air somewhere else, hence this uncommon commentary's reason for being.  If it does come on, I strongly advise you to turn to some other channel; even a "reality" show would be preferable to that absurdity.