Metropolis · Question
How does Metropolis develop the theme of The Doppelgänger and Stolen Identity?
Answer
Metropolis by Thea von Harbou develops The Doppelgänger and Stolen Identity across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The inventor Rotwang creates a robotic double of Maria, stealing her 'ego' to manipulate the workers. This theme explores the loss of self, the power of imitation, and how a false image can be used to incite chaos and serve the ruling class's agenda.
Rotwang's creation of a mechanical Maria with an almost completed head introduces the theme of a doppelgänger, and the deceptive voice in the house mimics Maria's identity.
The Whore of Babylon in Freder's dream bears the features of Maria, whom he loves, suggesting a dark doppelgänger that corrupts her image and foreshadows the theme of stolen identity.
Rotwang reveals he has stolen Maria's ego and created a duplicate to deceive the workers.
Evidence in the book
- VIII
Rotwang's creation of a mechanical Maria with an almost completed head introduces the theme of a doppelgänger, and the deceptive voice in the house mimics Maria's identity.
- X
The Whore of Babylon in Freder's dream bears the features of Maria, whom he loves, suggesting a dark doppelgänger that corrupts her image and foreshadows the theme of stolen identity.
- XIII
Rotwang reveals he has stolen Maria's ego and created a duplicate to deceive the workers.
- XXI
Rotwang's creation, the false Maria, is being burned, highlighting the theme of artificial identity and the original's replacement.
