From the Stage to Film to Paper

As was noted in class, German cinema during the 1930's heavily relied on the production of "happy" films. I believe it would be important to understand why the Nazi regime embraced this genre, and "The Broken Jug" in particular, when it is not the genre typically connected with propaganda or political messages. The first step would be to show which aspects of the movie fit the archetype for Nazi propaganda. Here I would detail how the lazy, alcoholic, disfigured, sinful judge broke the own laws he stood for until the noble court examiner thrust him out of town with the help of the good townsfolk; this was not so unlike the Nazi plan for the "plagues" on a pure German society (Jews, gypsies, etc.). Next, I would analyze the role of characters like Judge Adam in Nazi films. For instance, in Quex the Hitler Youth that was a drain on the Nazi cause (throwing away propaganda fliers and fraternizing with the Communist girl) was shown as an outcast due to his actions against the party. These sort of characters show what happens to those that don't fit in with the plan for a better Nazi future. Lastly, I would show any differences made from the original play to the film adaptation that better adapt to Nazi culture.