
Released in 1916 (though it premiered on September 5th, 1916), D.W. Griffith’s silent epic “Intolerance” stands as a monumental achievement in cinematic history. This film doesn’t merely tell a story; it weaves together four distinct narratives spanning different eras and cultures, showcasing the enduring themes of love, hate, and intolerance that have shaped human history.
While often remembered for its controversial portrayal of the Ku Klux Klan and accusations of racism (which continue to be debated), “Intolerance” is far more than a simple story about prejudice. It’s a grand tapestry exploring the universality of human emotions and the destructive power of societal biases.
Plot Threads Across Time
The film masterfully interweaves four seemingly disparate narratives:
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The Babylonian Story: Set in ancient Babylon, this storyline follows the ill-fated love between a young woman and a prince whose jealousy leads to tragedy.
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The Story of Judea: This segment focuses on Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, juxtaposing his message of love and forgiveness with the brutality of Roman persecution.
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The Story of Paris in the 16th Century: The Huguenot massacre provides a chilling backdrop as Catholics violently target Protestants during a period of intense religious conflict.
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The Modern Day Story: Set against the backdrop of early 20th century America, this narrative follows the trials and tribulations of a young working-class couple facing societal pressures and economic hardship.
Griffith skillfully intercuts these stories, building parallels and contrasts that highlight the cyclical nature of human conflict and the recurring themes of intolerance throughout history. The Babylonian tale, for instance, mirrors the modern-day story with its focus on forbidden love and societal judgment, while the story of Judea emphasizes the consequences of blind hatred and religious extremism.
A Visual Feast: The Power of Griffith’s Vision
“Intolerance” is a visual marvel, showcasing D.W. Griffith’s innovative filmmaking techniques. He employs groundbreaking editing techniques (including parallel editing) to seamlessly transition between the different narratives, drawing connections between seemingly unrelated events.
The film’s scale is equally impressive.
Massive sets were constructed for the Babylonian and Judean scenes, while location shooting was used extensively for the Paris segment. Griffith also utilized a wide range of camera angles and movements, capturing the grandeur of ancient civilizations and the chaotic violence of religious persecution with equal effectiveness.
| Story | Setting | Themes |
|—|—|—| | Babylonian | Ancient Babylon | Love, Jealousy, Fate | | Judea | Ancient Judea | Sacrifice, Forgiveness, Religious Persecution | | Paris | 16th Century France | Religious Intolerance, Violence, Massacre | | Modern Day | Early 20th Century America | Social Class, Prejudice, Love & Hardship |
The Cast: A Gathering of Silent Film Stars
“Intolerance” boasted a large cast, many of whom were rising stars in the world of silent film. Lillian Gish, already a celebrated actress known for her ethereal beauty and expressive performances, played the leading roles in both the Babylonian and modern-day stories.
Robert Harron, a frequent collaborator with Griffith, delivered powerful performances as the Prince in Babylon and the struggling young man in the modern story. Other notable actors included Mae Marsh (as the wife of the Parisian nobleman), Miriam Cooper (as Mary Magdalene), and Constance Talmadge (as the Babylonian priestess).
Themes that Resonate Today: Intolerance as a Timeless Issue
Despite its age, “Intolerance” continues to resonate with audiences today due to its powerful exploration of timeless themes. Griffith’s film serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of prejudice, hatred, and unchecked aggression. The imagery of violence and oppression throughout the film remains deeply unsettling, forcing viewers to confront the darkest aspects of human nature.
However, “Intolerance” also offers a glimmer of hope.
The intertwined narratives highlight the enduring power of love, compassion, and forgiveness. Even amidst immense suffering, characters display acts of kindness and selflessness, suggesting that humanity is capable of overcoming even the most deeply entrenched biases.
A Legacy of Controversy and Impact:
“Intolerance” remains a controversial film due to its depiction of the Ku Klux Klan in a seemingly sympathetic light. While Griffith claimed his intention was to highlight the destructive nature of intolerance itself, many critics argue that the film’s portrayal reinforces racist stereotypes and glorifies violence.
Despite the controversy, “Intolerance” undeniably left a lasting mark on cinematic history. Its groundbreaking filmmaking techniques, epic scope, and powerful themes continue to inspire filmmakers today. The film stands as a testament to D.W. Griffith’s visionary artistry while also serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prejudice and the importance of embracing tolerance and understanding in our own lives.