Character

Joseph of Arimathea

pious discreet legendary

Joseph of Arimathea is a pivotal figure in Holy Grail legend, described as the biblical figure entrusted with the Grail following the Crucifixion. In *Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade*, Walter Donovan invokes Joseph to authenticate the relic's path—from Christ's cup, secured by Joseph, to Crusader markers—while unveiling the sandstone Grail Tablet. This reference anchors the quest's mythology, transforming the Grail into a map for immortality amid Nazi threats. Joseph's role underscores themes of sacred custody passed through history, drawing Indiana Jones into the quest by connecting ancient faith to his father's research and the broader narrative of the artifact's journey. His portrayal emphasizes traits of piety, discretion, and legendary significance, framing him as the initial guardian in a chain of custodians spanning from the Crucifixion to Crusader knights and hidden tombs.

2 appearances

Holy Grail mythology

Also known as: Biblical figure entrusted with the Holy Grail, Joseph (Grail guardian), Joseph of Arimathaea

Joseph of …'s Journey

A timeline through the narrative

2 moments

S1E3 · INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE

The Grail’s Personal Hook: Donovan’s Gambit and Indy’s Reluctant Intrigue

Surface: Not observable (biblical figure). Internal: Presumed to be driven by faith and a sense of duty to protect the Grail.

Joseph of Arimathaea is invoked by Donovan as the biblical figure entrusted with the Grail after the Crucifixion. His role in the scene is theological and mythological: Donovan cites him …

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S1E3 · INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE

The Grail’s Shadow: Donovan’s Gambit and the Father’s Vanishing

N/A (biblical figure, not present)

Joseph of Arimathaea is invoked only through Donovan’s narrative, serving as a biblical figure whose role in the Grail’s legend is recounted to lend authority to its origins. Donovan references …

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