Anybody noticed the irony?


When Babette first arrives in Denmark, the letter says that she escaped the slaughter of the Paris Commune of 1871 where the general Galliffet killed her son and husband "like rats". Later on in the movie, the other general at the feast quotes general Galliffet that "there was no woman in Paris for whom he would shed his blood, except Babette". I found it kind of interesting.

reply

No, I hadn't noticed that. I'll have to bear this in mind the next time I watch. That would be ironic indeed. Thank you.


reply

It’s one of the reasons I found the story interesting and tracked down the published short story (to try and understand the connection between Galliffet and Babette). What a great concept – That Babette is actually serving a person (military) and ideals (stodgy old folks) at the table that may be patriotic, ignorant, stubborn, boring, etc. a meal that transcends them, gives them insight and makes them better people. Babette asks for nothing- As an artist she only wants to serve (express herself). She did not get the kudos or accolades because that is nothing to a true artist who knows his/her craft. It is all about perfection in performance and her performance is a service…” Her recipient(s) are transported and evolved and humbled. “ There comes a time when our eyes are opened and we come to realize that mercy is infinite. We need only await it with confidence and receive it with gratitude. Mercy imposes no conditions.” There is a connection between Galliffet and Babette but it is of no consequence-We are above this worldliness.

reply

[deleted]


it's probably why she wasn't dead


I'm proud to say my poetry is only understood by that minority which is aware.

reply

Great research! I'm surprised no one here seemed to ask why Babette's husband and son were killed. I guess more people know French history than I thought.

reply

Because they were communists who wanted to overthrow the French government.

reply