Luis Buñuel’s 1972 surrealist masterpiece, The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie , hilariously dissects the superficiality and absurdity of upper-middle-class conventions. Through a series of bizarre and dreamlike dinner parties that never quite happen, Buñuel uses satire to critique societal norms and hypocrisy.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example The guests repeatedly fail to have their dinner Situational irony : A dinner party that never happens. The ambassador’s casual discussion of terrorism Verbal irony : Discussing terrorism in a nonchalant, casual manner.
Satire
Movie Scene Device Example The military dinner scene Satirical portrayal of military pomp and absurdity. The bourgeoisie’s reaction to the police raid Satire of the privileged class’s detachment from reality.
Surrealism
Movie Scene Device Example The recurring dream sequences Surreal elements: Blurring the lines between dreams and reality. The endless walking down a country road Surreal imagery emphasizing the futility and absurdity of the journey.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The bishop’s gardening scene Symbolism : The bishop’s role reflects the merging of the sacred and the profane.The recurring motif of the never-served dinner Symbolism : The unattainable nature of bourgeois satisfaction.
Paradox
Movie Scene Device Example The characters’ polite conversation about drugs Paradox : Politeness juxtaposed with the illegal and taboo.The ambassador’s moral lecture followed by corruption Paradox : Moral high ground undermined by personal actions.
Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example The entire film’s plot structure Allegory for the cyclical nature of bourgeois life and hypocrisy.The ghost of the colonel’s murder victim Allegory for repressed guilt and unresolved conflicts.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example The dinner scenes versus the dream sequences Juxtaposition of reality and fantasy to highlight absurdity.The bourgeois dining rituals versus the underclass struggles Juxtaposition to critique social inequality.
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The interrupted dinner parties Metaphor for the disruption of social order.The country road the guests endlessly walk Metaphor for the aimlessness and futility of their existence.
Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example The exaggerated formalities of the bourgeois Hyperbole to emphasize their superficiality and pretentiousness.The absurdity of the dream sequences Hyperbole to amplify the surreal and nonsensical nature of their fears.
Motif
Movie Scene Device Example The recurring failed dinner parties Motif representing the central theme of societal absurdity.The walking on the country road Motif symbolizing the endless and meaningless journey of the bourgeois.
Main Characters
The Ambassador (Rafael Acosta)
Literary Device Explanation Irony His polished demeanor contrasts with his involvement in illicit activities. Symbolism Represents the corruption and moral ambiguity within the political elite.
M. Thevenot
Literary Device Explanation Satire Embodies the absurdity and hypocrisy of bourgeois values. Allegory His actions serve as a critique of societal norms and conventions.
Mme. Thevenot
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Her seemingly refined nature contrasts with her immoral actions. Paradox Polite yet involved in scandalous behavior, highlighting societal hypocrisy.
M. Sénéchal
Literary Device Explanation Metaphor His futile attempts to host a dinner symbolize the unattainable nature of social perfection. Hyperbole His exaggerated mannerisms emphasize the ridiculousness of the bourgeois lifestyle.
Mme. Sénéchal
Literary Device Explanation Irony Her domestic role contrasts with her manipulative and cunning personality. Allegory Represents the dual nature of public versus private personas.
Character Dynamics
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Relationships between characters, such as the bourgeois friends versus the servants, highlight social divides. Symbolism Interactions often symbolize broader societal critiques, such as the casual discussion of immoral activities reflecting normalized corruption.
Absurdity of Social Norms
Literary Device Explanation Satire The absurd rituals and failures highlight the futility of social conventions. Irony The endless interruptions of the dinner symbolize the constant disruption of social order.
Hypocrisy
Literary Device Explanation Paradox Characters’ actions often contradict their words, showcasing their hypocrisy. Allegory The plot itself serves as an allegory for the inherent hypocrisy in bourgeois life.
Futility
Literary Device Explanation Metaphor The repeated failed attempts to have dinner represent the futility of their pursuits. Motif The endless walking on the country road underscores the theme of futility.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Surrealism Dream sequences Visual effects and transitions create a dreamlike quality, enhancing surreal elements. Symbolism Cinematography Symbolic imagery , such as the country road, is emphasized through framing and focus. Irony Sound design Juxtaposition of cheerful music with grim or absurd scenes heightens the irony .Satire Costuming and props Exaggerated costumes and props underscore the satirical elements. Paradox Editing Sharp cuts between contrasting scenes highlight paradoxical elements.
Scene: The Interrupted Dinner Party
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This scene exemplifies the film’s use of irony and satire . The dinner, meant to be a sophisticated social event, is repeatedly interrupted by bizarre and surreal events. The polished manners of the guests contrast sharply with the absurdity of the interruptions, highlighting the underlying absurdity of their social rituals.
Scene: The Country Road Walk
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In this scene, the recurring motif of the guests walking down a country road symbolizes their aimless and futile pursuit of social ideals. The endless journey with no clear destination serves as a metaphor for their meaningless existence.
Interactive Quiz
What literary device is primarily used in the recurring failed dinner scenes?
Which character is an allegory for the dual nature of public versus private personas?
A) Mme. Sénéchal
B) M. Thevenot
C) The Ambassador
D) M. Sénéchal
What does the endless walking on the country road symbolize?
A) Freedom
B) Futility
C) Success
D) Danger
