Released in 1916, “Intolerance: Love’s Struggle Throughout the Ages” is a silent epic film directed by D.W. Griffith. This ambitious project intertwines four distinct historical narratives to explore the overarching theme of intolerance through the ages. The film’s innovative storytelling and groundbreaking cinematic techniques make it a landmark in film history. 🎬✨
“Intolerance” employs a myriad of literary devices to weave its complex tapestry of narratives. Here are ten key devices used in the film:
1. Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The recurring image of the cradle Symbolizes the continuity of life The use of the cross in the Medieval France story Represents faith and suffering
2. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example The execution of Jesus paralleled with the hanging of the Boy in the modern story Highlights the irony of intolerance leading to injustice The fall of Babylon despite its grandiosityIrony of a great civilization’s downfall due to internal strife
3. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The early scenes of the workers’ strike Foreshadow the tragic climax in the modern story The lavish banquets in Babylon Hint at the eventual fall and chaos
4. Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Cutting between different time periods Highlights the universal theme of intolerance The contrast between the peaceful cradle and violent scenes Juxtaposes innocence and brutality
5. Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example The entire Babylonian narrative Serves as an allegory for the consequences of pride and decadence The Medieval story Represents the struggle between faith and corruption
6. Motif
Movie Scene Device Example The repetitive use of the cradle A motif representing the passage of time The frequent depiction of religious symbols Motif highlighting the conflict between faith and intolerance
7. Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example The grand scale of the Babylonian sets Hyperbolic representation of ancient splendor The exaggerated portrayals of evil characters Highlights the moral extremes of the narratives
8. Parallelism
Movie Scene Device Example The structure of the four stories Uses parallelism to draw connections between different eras The simultaneous climaxes of the narratives Parallelism enhances the film’s tension and thematic unity
9. Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The walls of Babylon Metaphor for the barriers of intoleranceThe cradle Metaphor for the fragility and continuity of life
10. Personification
Movie Scene Device Example The depiction of the city of Babylon Personified as a living entity facing destruction The portrayal of Intolerance as a looming figure Personifies intolerance as a pervasive and destructive force
Character Studies
The Boy (Modern Story)
Device Explanation Symbolism The Boy symbolizes the innocence corrupted by societal injustice. Irony His tragic fate despite his noble intentions highlights societal irony .
The Dear One (Modern Story)
Device Explanation Juxtaposition Her purity and innocence are contrasted with the harsh world around her. Foreshadowing Early scenes of happiness foreshadow the impending tragedy .
Brown Eyes (Babylonian Story)
Device Explanation Allegory Represents the everyday people affected by the whims of power. Metaphor Her struggles are a metaphor for the larger societal conflicts.
The Mountain Girl (Babylonian Story)
Device Explanation Hyperbole Her exaggerated bravery emphasizes the valor in the face of tyranny. Symbolism Represents the spirit of resistance against oppression.
Character Dynamics
Device Explanation Parallelism The relationships across different eras highlight universal themes of love and struggle. Motif Recurrent motifs in character interactions emphasize the ongoing battle against intolerance.
Injustice
Device Explanation Irony Irony is used to highlight the unjust fates of the innocent.Juxtaposition Juxtaposing different eras shows the persistent nature of injustice.
Faith
Love
Device Explanation Metaphor Love is depicted as a force for unity and resilience. Motif The cradle serves as a motif symbolizing the nurturing aspect of love.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Visual motifs Recurring visual symbols reinforce the thematic content. Juxtaposition Cross-cutting editing Cross-cutting between stories emphasizes their connections. Irony Sound contrasts Use of contrasting soundscapes highlights ironic elements.
Scene Selection
The Fall of Babylon
YouTube Link: Fall of Babylon Scene
Breakdown: This scene uses hyperbole in the grand depiction of Babylon’s opulence, juxtaposed with the impending chaos. The fall of the city is a metaphor for the consequences of intolerance and excess.
The Execution of the Boy
YouTube Link: Execution of the Boy Scene
Breakdown: The irony in this scene is stark as the innocent Boy is executed, drawing parallels to the injustice faced by Jesus. The cinematic techniques, such as close-ups and stark lighting, enhance the emotional impact.
The Siege of the Castle (Medieval France)
YouTube Link: Siege of the Castle Scene
Breakdown: This scene highlights the allegorical battle between faith and corruption. The use of intense, dramatic music and dynamic camera angles underscores the thematic struggle.
Interactive Quiz:
Which literary device is most prominently used in the depiction of Babylon’s grandeur?
What does the recurring image of the cradle symbolize?
A) Intolerance
B) The continuity of life
C) Power
How does the film use juxtaposition to enhance its themes?
A) By showing only modern-day scenes
B) By cutting between different historical periods
C) By focusing solely on Babylon
