Metropolis Symbolism and Theory Analysis

The symbolism in Metropolis

-The garden scene

Here, it is evident that this scene is an introduction to the wealthy of the city, those who live above ground in their ‘eternal garden’ created from the exploitation of the workers. This garden acts almost like a garden of Eden for the rich – a religious connotation that explores humans (Adam and Eve) in heavenly riches that they can indulge in at their command. It is interesting because we know the biblical reference leads these humans into sin and therefore suggests that the garden scene in this film has an underlying sinister tone, foreshadowing a downfall – which does happen as a result of the workers’ revolt. This relates to Marxist theory; the wealthy city dwellers are the bourgeoisie who owns the industry that runs their lifestyle, yet they do not labour to maintain it – that is the underground worker's job, and the revolt of the proletariat is Marx’s class conflict. The idyllic scene of the garden contrasts with the sci-fi genre of the film as there is an absence of technology, yet the formalist technique shows special effects used to create the detailed set. 

The cinematography of the scene starts as an establishing wide shot with several women dressed extravagantly in ridiculous sequins, headpieces, and drapery, showing their wealth; their status in society affords them to appear this way, unlike the workers who would be shunned. The use of the birds, such as the egrets and peacocks symbolise the fortune, prosperity, and vanity of the wealthy. Similarly, the protagonist Freder is dressed in white which symbolises his good nature and purity in acting as the mediator for the class divide. The introduction of Maria shows her arriving with a group of proletariat children; this is evident from their ragged clothing and dirty appearances. They cling to her for guidance, and their presence in the scene contrasts to the light colour scheme and costume of the rich, furthering the Marxist messaging.