Never understood the German character
Was he gay, bisexual, heterosexual, what? What were his designs on Gudrun & why were they attracted to each other?
shareThe character is an impish homosexual aesthete, openly contemptuous of 'respectable' social conventions. Gudrun is attracted to his sense of mischief and decadent subversion. They're not attracted to each other sexually - it's more of an emotional connection and an outlet for boredom and frustration.
Ironically this connection threatens Gerald much more so than a sexual connection would. Gudrun is enjoying herself and experiencing a form of freedom with a man other than Gerald - exactly the spiritual 'connection' which Gerald craves with her and can't ever achieve. Gerald can only attempt to possess her, and then fly into psychotic frustrated jealous rages when another man achieves with her what he simply can't. Gudrun won't be owned by anyone, least of all Gerald Critch.
Great answer. Thanks. I really should read or re-read the book.
shareduke-verity says > The character is an impish homosexual aesthete, openly contemptuous of 'respectable' social conventions. Gudrun is attracted to his sense of mischief and decadent subversion. They're not attracted to each other sexually - it's more of an emotional connection and an outlet for boredom and frustration.I agree with your assessment and think it describes and applies to a lot of gay people in general; not just that character in the movie. They seem to have deep contempt for respectable social conventions and do all they can to be antagonistic towards those who disagree with their views and ways of life.
I would also add, in the case of the German gay character, that his 'attraction' to Gudrun has a lot to do with his desire for Gerald. He'd love to be in Gudrun's shoes but that'll never happen. The next best thing is to lure him into that circle by being around her.
As we see, Gerald's raw sexuality appeals to both men and women but he's not at all interested in men and, unlike his other women, he loves Gudrun. The conflict arises because Gudrun doesn't want his love; she wants to be part of the decadent lifestyle that he's now given up to be with her. It frustrates them both just as it frustrated Rupert who is clearly bisexual and wants both Gerald and Ursula.
As you said, Gudrun envies the irresponsible, casual, hedonistic lifestyle of her German friend. They have that in common so, in theory, it should be a perfect match but there is no sexual attraction to each other.
This has a lot to do with why I don't like the movie. Most of the characters are lost and confused looking for something that they'll never have yet they remain embroiled in these destructive and hopeless 'relationships'.
Woman, man! That's the way it should be Tarzan. [Tarzan and his mate] share