“Rosemary’s Baby,” directed by Roman Polanski and released in 1968, is a psychological horror film that masterfully combines supernatural elements with real-world anxieties. Based on Ira Levin’s novel , the story revolves around a young woman, Rosemary Woodhouse, who begins to suspect that her seemingly perfect life and her pregnancy are part of a sinister conspiracy orchestrated by her neighbors.
1. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Example Rosemary’s initial meeting with the Castevets Subtle hints are given about their true nature through their overly friendly demeanor and peculiar habits. Rosemary’s dream about being raped by a demonic figure This dream foreshadows the actual ritual and her eventual impregnation by Satan.
2. Irony
Movie Scene Example Rosemary’s belief that Dr. Sapirstein is helping her In reality, he is part of the cult manipulating her. Guy’s ambition to succeed in his acting career He ironically achieves success by making a pact with the cult, sacrificing Rosemary’s well-being.
3. Symbolism
Movie Scene Example The Tannis Root charm Symbolizes the occult influence and control over Rosemary. The apartment building (The Bramford)Represents a gothic, sinister place harboring dark secrets.
4. Suspense
Movie Scene Example Rosemary’s investigation into the book “All of Them Witches” The tension builds as she uncovers the true nature of her neighbors. The climactic scene where Rosemary discovers the cult The slow build-up to her realization creates a sense of dread.
5. Imagery
Movie Scene Example Rosemary’s hallucinations during the rape scene Vivid and disturbing imagery creates a nightmarish atmosphere . The final scene revealing the baby’s eyes Powerful imagery that leaves a lasting impression of horror .
6. Dramatic Irony
Movie Scene Example The audience knows about the cult before Rosemary Creates tension as we see her slowly uncover the truth. Guy’s betrayal The audience is aware of his deal with the cult, while Rosemary remains in the dark.
7. Allegory
Movie Scene Example The story of Rosemary’s Baby as a whole An allegory for the loss of control and autonomy, particularly relevant to women’s rights and bodily autonomy. The cult’s manipulation of Rosemary Reflects societal and patriarchal control over women.
8. Metaphor
Movie Scene Example Rosemary’s pregnancy Serves as a metaphor for fear of the unknown and loss of bodily autonomy. The Castevets’ kindness A metaphor for deceptive appearances and hidden dangers.
9. Flashback
Movie Scene Example Rosemary’s flashback to her Catholic upbringing Highlights her initial naivety and trust in others. Guy’s flashbacks to his struggling acting career Emphasizes his desperation and willingness to sacrifice anything for success.
10. Motif
Movie Scene Example Repeated mentions of Satan and the occult Reinforces the central theme of supernatural evil. The recurring use of lullabies and nursery rhymes Adds to the eerie, unsettling atmosphere .
Character Studies
Rosemary Woodhouse
Literary Device Explanation Foreshadowing Rosemary’s dreams and odd feelings about the Castevets hint at her eventual realization of their true nature. Symbolism The Tannis Root charm she wears symbolizes the control the cult has over her.
Guy Woodhouse
Literary Device Explanation Irony Guy’s success comes at the cost of his wife’s safety and well-being. Dramatic Irony The audience knows about his betrayal long before Rosemary does, creating tension and highlighting his selfishness.
Minnie and Roman Castevet
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism They symbolize the insidious nature of evil hidden beneath a facade of friendliness. Allegory Represent societal control and manipulation, particularly of women.
Character Dynamics
Relationship Analysis Rosemary and Guy Their relationship deteriorates as Guy’s ambition leads him to betray Rosemary, showcasing themes of trust and betrayal. Rosemary and the Castevets Initially friendly, their relationship turns into one of manipulation and control, reflecting the horror of deception.
Paranoia and Trust
Literary Device Explanation Suspense The slow build-up of Rosemary’s paranoia creates a pervasive sense of mistrust. Irony Rosemary’s misplaced trust in her neighbors and husband heightens the theme of paranoia.
Control and Autonomy
Literary Device Explanation Metaphor Rosemary’s pregnancy serves as a metaphor for loss of control over her own body. Allegory The cult’s manipulation reflects broader societal issues of control, particularly over women.
The Supernatural vs. Reality
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism The Tannis Root and other occult symbols blur the line between reality and the supernatural. Imagery Vivid and disturbing visuals enhance the feeling of an otherworldly influence encroaching on reality.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Imagery Visual effects and cinematography Enhance the disturbing and surreal nature of Rosemary’s experiences. Suspense Sound design and music Build tension through eerie, unsettling scores and sound effects. Symbolism Set design and props The Bramford’s gothic architecture and the occult artifacts deepen the symbolic layers of the story.
Scene 1: Rosemary’s Dream/Rape Scene
Scene 2: The Final Revelation
Link: Rosemary’s Baby Final Scene Breakdown: The culmination of suspense and dramatic irony , this scene reveals the truth about the cult and Rosemary’s baby. The use of lighting and Rosemary’s horrified reaction enhances the impact of the revelation.
Engage with our interactive quiz to test your understanding of the literary devices used in “Rosemary’s Baby.”
Interactive Quiz:
Which literary device is predominantly used to build suspense in “Rosemary’s Baby”?
What does the Tannis Root charm symbolize in the film?
A. Love
B. Control
C. Freedom
Which character’s ambition leads to Rosemary’s downfall ?
A. Roman Castevet
B. Guy Woodhouse
C. Dr. Sapirstein
