Nights of Cabiria (1957), directed by Federico Fellini, is a poignant and evocative film that follows the life of Cabiria, a resilient yet vulnerable Roman prostitute, as she navigates through life’s harsh realities while holding onto her dreams of love and happiness. The film is renowned for its deep emotional resonance, compelling character portrayals, and Fellini’s masterful storytelling.
In Nights of Cabiria, Fellini employs a variety of literary devices to enhance the narrative and deepen the audience’s understanding of the characters and themes. Here are ten significant devices used in the film, with specific scenes illustrating each one.
1. Symbolism
Movie Scene
Device Example
Cabiria’s house by the river
The house symbolizes her isolation and fragile existence.
The religious procession
Represents Cabiria’s quest for redemption and hope.
2. Irony
Movie Scene
Device Example
Cabiria’s excitement before meeting Oscar
Dramatic irony: the audience suspects Oscar’s true intentions.
Cabiria’s laughter after a series of setbacks
Situational irony: her resilience despite constant disappointments.
His perfect behavior hints at an inevitable betrayal.
Character Dynamics
Cabiria’s relationships with other characters are pivotal in driving the narrative and themes. Her interactions reveal her vulnerability, strength, and unwavering hope despite constant setbacks. The dynamic between Cabiria and Oscar, for instance, encapsulates themes of trust, betrayal, and resilience.
Breakdown: This scene sets the tragic tone of the film and introduces Cabiria’s vulnerability, establishing the central conflict of her struggle for survival and dignity.
Breakdown: A powerful scene that combines symbolism, metaphor, and tone to encapsulate the film’s themes of hope and resilience despite life’s hardships.
Conclusion
To engage readers and test their understanding of the literary devices used in Nights of Cabiria, here’s an interactive multiple-choice quiz:
Quiz: Understanding Literary Devices in Nights of Cabiria
What does Cabiria’s house by the river symbolize?
A) Wealth
B) Isolation and fragile existence
C) Luxury
Which literary device is used when Cabiria laughs despite her hardships?