Aggression in Schindlers List-Helen Hirsch

Aggression in Schindlers List-Helen Hirsch

An emotionally shocking segment of the film, Schindler's List, involves the interspersion of 3 different scenes - the marriage of a Jewish couple (Rebecca Tannenbaum and Josef Bau), Schindler's birthday celebrations, and the brutal and unprovoked beating of Helen Hersch.

These scenes occur directly after Goeth's apparent, initial `change of heart' (brought on by advice given by Schindler) whereby he pardon's several Jews for infringements but soon comes to some sort of realisation that such Jews do not deserve second chances.

Amon Geoth does not enter the cellar where Helen is located, with the preconceived notion of imposing harm on her, quite the opposite. In the initial shots of the scene we (the viewer), through the use of lighting techniques (refer to storyboard) and acting, see an intoxicated Geoth on a balcony derive the idea of visiting Helen in the cellar. He attempts to initiate a conversation with Helen, but sensing her colossal unwillingness to converse, continues to deliver what ends up being a monologue. Initially Goeth compliments Helen on her working skills (eg. "I came to tell you that you really are a wonderful cook and a well-trained servant"). Although there is no direct evidence, it should be reasonable to say that Goeth's prime motive for descending into the sellar was to seduce Helen. It does not seem logical that Goeth would come down to the basement for the sole purpose of complimenting a member of a religion that he so instinctively abhorred.

As Goeth continues revealing personal feelings (eg. "Sometimes we're both lonely") and questioning his belief that Helen is `sub-human', he moves closer towards her. He attempts to provide himself with justification for carrying out his desires for Helen and involves Helen in his own monologue (A possible reason for this action was to shift his guilt to Helen and convince himself the attraction was mutual). We are able to...

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