'Asphalt Islam' A Multimodal Comparative Analysis of Islam in Contrast to Christianity and Buddhism in Educational Films

Abstract

This study employs a comparative and multimodal analysis to examine Islam’s portrayal in Swedish educational films, contrasting it with Christianity and Buddhism. Comparison is essential for understanding each religion’s representation within the same material, while the multimodal approach, focusing on visual, auditory, and textual elements, captures the nuanced portrayals of 'rough' versus 'soft' religions. Islam is depicted as 'rough,' characterised by minimal soundscapes, suburban visuals, and framed within a Sunni normative perspective. Such a comparative lens reveals discursive values and biases, encouraging self–reflection and awareness. Teachers must be mindful in selecting educational films and understand how they can be used to foster a more balanced perspective. This portrayal depicts Islam as 'asphalt Islam', emphasising its association with urban, marginalised settings and highlighting the importance of critical engagement with these educational materials.