The Graduate

A detailed Summary of The Graduate

The film "The Graduate" is seemingly divided into two sections, Benjamin's relationship with Mrs. Robinson and his relationship with Elaine. These two relationships, although very different, are inter-related. An integral part of the film is that Benjamin is forced to choose between the two women, representing different morals and values. It seems to be obvious that Benjamin chooses Elaine, but a closer look at the ending has the viewer wondering if he is happy with his decision.

The first section of the film, which concentrates on Ben's relationship with Mrs. Robinson, foreshadows the events to come. Mrs. Robinson, sexually forthright and wise, seduces the innocent Ben, a true cipher incapable of action or decision. Immediately she becomes the predator, always dressed in animal prints and surrounded by jungle like settings. It seems clear, that while Ben and Mrs. Robinson are the focus of the film at this point, we are encouraged to formulate a more traditional and acceptable theme. Despite Mrs. Robinson's dominance, the presence of Elaine Robinson (literally) hangs over these early scenes. Mrs. Robinson takes Ben to her home, shows him El

Elaine continues to haunt Ben, ghost-like for the first half of the film, our eventual meeting with her cements the understanding that Elaine is to be the primary love interest. In direct contrast to her mother, there is nothing deceptive about Elaine; she lives up to the purity of her portrait, while Mrs. Robinson becomes alternately spiteful and pathetic. Mrs. Robinson has very little screen time in the latter section of the film; the focus has shifted away from her quite distinctly, and has centered on Ben's efforts to win back Elaine after the secret of his affair with her mother is revealed. Ben's choice is made clear to the audience. Mrs. Robinson, drenched in the rain, make-up smeared, becomes the danger. Elaine, swinging her hair in the sun at Berkeley University is the salvation. Ben's attempts to win her back follow classical lines. She rejects him until he is spurred into action. Once this decision is made, the stage is set for the reunion at the film's end. Therefore the "save" at the end seems appropriate, and the glory of their escape, defying the establishment that tries to constrain them, only reinforces their unity.

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Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 775
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Movies

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The Graduate

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