My initial impression of the Broken Jug was that it did not overtly convey political propaganda to the extent that other Nazi films of the time did, such as Hitler Youth Quex. However, as discussed in class, it is clearly important to evaluate this comedy based on the context in which it falls within German history and politics. Accordingly, if I were to write a paper on the Broken Jug, the film’s most direct parallel to Nazi film and propaganda would be based on its portrayal of Adam as a corrupt, gluttonous, dishonorable figure who fails to uphold his duties as a judge, effectively making him a detriment to society. By stereotyping Adam as the opposite of the German ideal, the film denounces cowardice, irresponsibility, and the failure to promote the welfare of society.
In addition, the Broken Jug’s apparent references to Adam and Eve – symbols of weakness when exposed to temptation – seems to allude to the Nazi’s disapproval of weak individuals who lack discipline, especially when the implications of their actions can negatively affect the greater good. Adam who is supposed to be an upright individual as a judge, fails as an individual society – he is a drunk and a liar. Eve also falls victim to similar shortcomings of character as she cannot stand up for herself until the end when she realizes her boyfriend will be sent off to jail – she is selfish.
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