Besuch Der Alten Dame Film

Besuch Der Alten Dame (The Visit): A Guide for Understanding the Film

Friedrich Dürrenmatt's play "Der Besuch der alten Dame" (The Visit) is a staple of German-language theatre. Several film adaptations exist, each offering a visual interpretation of this classic tragicomedy. This guide provides information to help you understand the plot, characters, themes, and significance of the film adaptations of "Der Besuch der alten Dame." We'll focus on common elements and potential variations across different versions.

The Story: A Town Consumed by Greed

The central narrative revolves around Claire Zachanassian, a multi-billionaire who returns to her impoverished hometown of Güllen after many years. Güllen is economically devastated, plagued by unemployment and debt. The townspeople initially welcome Claire with open arms, hoping she will provide financial relief.

Claire, however, has an agenda. She offers the town a substantial sum of money – a billion, split between the town and its citizens. The catch? She wants justice for what happened to her in her youth. Years ago, she was forced to leave Güllen after being falsely accused of promiscuity by Alfred Ill, her former lover. Ill bribed two witnesses to lie under oath, ruining Claire's reputation and forcing her into exile.

Claire's condition for the donation is simple: she wants Alfred Ill dead. She promises to donate the money only if the town agrees to execute him. This sets in motion a moral crisis for the people of Güllen.

Key Characters

Understanding the main characters is crucial for grasping the complexities of the story:

Claire Zachanassian: The incredibly wealthy and powerful protagonist. She is driven by a thirst for revenge, a desire to right the wrongs of the past, and a cynical view of human nature. She is often depicted as cold, calculating, and almost inhuman, having replaced parts of her body with prosthetics due to various accidents and illnesses. Her wealth gives her almost unlimited power.
Alfred Ill: The antagonist, though also a victim of circumstance. He is a respected member of the community, a shopkeeper, and a father. He initially believes the town will protect him, but as Claire's influence grows, he realizes he is in grave danger. He represents the average man caught in a moral dilemma.
The Mayor: Represents the town's official leadership. He is initially resistant to Claire's offer but gradually succumbs to the pressure and the allure of wealth. He embodies the corruption and moral decay that infect Güllen.
The Schoolmaster: He serves as a voice of conscience and reason, warning against the dangers of succumbing to greed. He is often portrayed as a moral compass, but his influence diminishes as the town's desire for wealth intensifies.
The Policeman: He is responsible for maintaining law and order, but ultimately he is powerless against the collective will of the town.
Robby and Toby: Claire's two blind eunuch bodyguards, a grotesque reminder of the price of her wealth and power. They are the witnesses Ill bribed in the past.

Themes Explored in the Film

The film adaptation of "Der Besuch der alten Dame" typically explores several important themes:

Justice vs. Revenge: The play and film grapple with the question of whether Claire's actions are a pursuit of justice or simply an act of revenge. Is it ever morally justifiable to demand a life in exchange for money?
Greed and Corruption: The story highlights the corrupting influence of money and the willingness of people to compromise their morals for financial gain. The town's descent into moral depravity is a central theme.
Collective Guilt: The film explores the concept of collective responsibility. The townspeople are not individually responsible for Ill's initial crime, but they collectively become complicit in his murder.
Moral Decay: The slow and steady erosion of the town's moral values is a key element. The film depicts how easily a community can abandon its principles when faced with economic hardship and the promise of wealth.
The Power of Wealth: Claire's immense wealth allows her to manipulate and control the town, demonstrating the corrupting influence of power and the vulnerability of those who are financially desperate.
Individual vs. Society: The conflict between Alfred Ill and the rest of Güllen highlights the struggle of the individual against the pressure of societal expectations and the collective will of the majority.

Symbolism

Dürrenmatt's play is rich in symbolism, and the film adaptations often attempt to visually represent these symbols:

Claire's Prosthetics: Represent her emotional and physical damage, a consequence of the injustice she suffered. They also symbolize her detachment from humanity.
The Yellow Shoes: As the townspeople anticipate their newfound wealth, they start purchasing yellow shoes, symbolizing their growing complicity in Ill's fate and their embrace of greed.
The Coffin: The appearance of a new coffin in the town is a constant reminder of Ill's impending death and the growing tension within the community.
The Black Panther: This animal, once owned by Ill and now by Claire, symbolizes the animalistic instincts and the predatory nature of the situation. It represents the pursuit of vengeance.

Variations in Film Adaptations

While the core story remains consistent, different film adaptations may interpret the characters and themes in slightly different ways. Some adaptations may focus more on the psychological aspects of the characters, while others may emphasize the social commentary. Specific plot details or the ending might also vary. It's helpful to consider the director's vision and the historical context of each adaptation.

Understanding the Ending

The ending of "Der Besuch der alten Dame" is intentionally ambiguous and unsettling. While Alfred Ill is ultimately killed by the townspeople (though the method of his death is often obscured, suggesting a collective act of responsibility), the film doesn't offer a clear-cut resolution. The town receives the money, but at a terrible price. The question remains: was the price worth it? The ending forces the audience to confront the moral implications of the story and consider the long-term consequences of their actions.

Why "Der Besuch der alten Dame" Remains Relevant

Despite being written decades ago, "Der Besuch der alten Dame" continues to resonate with audiences because it explores timeless themes that are relevant to contemporary society. The play and its film adaptations offer a powerful commentary on human nature, the corrupting influence of money, and the dangers of sacrificing morality for personal gain. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of ethical behavior and the consequences of succumbing to greed.

By understanding the story, characters, themes, and symbolism of "Der Besuch der alten Dame," you can gain a deeper appreciation for this classic work of literature and its enduring relevance.

Tips for Watching the Film

Here are a few tips to enhance your viewing experience:

Consider the Adaptation: Be aware of which film adaptation you are watching, as each version might have a different interpretation.
Pay Attention to Visual Cues: The film often uses visual cues and symbolism to convey meaning.
Focus on the Characters' Motivations: Understanding the characters' motivations and internal conflicts will help you better understand the story.
Reflect on the Themes: After watching the film, take some time to reflect on the themes and their relevance to your own life and society.
Read the Play: Reading the original play by Friedrich Dürrenmatt can provide valuable context and insight into the story.