Metropolis · Question
How does Metropolis develop the theme of Class Division and Exploitation?
Answer
Metropolis by Thea von Harbou develops Class Division and Exploitation across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The stark divide between the elite, like Joh Fredersen and his son, and the subterranean workers is a major theme. The workers live in a 'subterranean city' and are treated as expendable cogs, while the upper class enjoys luxury, leading to simmering revolt and calls for destruction.
The chapter establishes the fundamental divide between the ruling class above ground and the exploited workers below.
The workers are depicted as a uniform, dehumanized mass, marching into the machine center, while Freder, the son of the Master, lives in luxury and observes from above.
The stark contrast between Freder's privileged perspective and the workers' exploited condition, along with Joh's cold justification of the system, highlights class division.
Evidence in the book
- Metropolis
The chapter establishes the fundamental divide between the ruling class above ground and the exploited workers below.
- The New Tower of Babel
The workers are depicted as a uniform, dehumanized mass, marching into the machine center, while Freder, the son of the Master, lives in luxury and observes from above.
- II
The stark contrast between Freder's privileged perspective and the workers' exploited condition, along with Joh's cold justification of the system, highlights class division.
- III
Freder, the son of the Master, exchanges his privileged life for a worker's uniform, directly confronting the exploitation of laborers in the machine hell.
- IV
The mysterious plan found in a dead worker's pocket and the workers' secretive behavior underscore the divide between the ruling class and the labor force.
- VI
The contrast between Georgi's tattered white silk (symbol of the elite) and his exploited state highlights class divisions.
- VII
Freder's exchange of clothes with the worker Georgi symbolizes his attempt to cross class boundaries, while Slim's enforcement of Joh's will highlights the exploitation inherent in the system.
- IX
Josaphat's forced exile from Metropolis by aeroplane underscores the power dynamics between the ruling class and those they discard, while his landing in a pastoral setting highlights the chasm between the industrial city and the rural countryside.
