Why Nobody Cares About Maude’s Car Thefts in Harold and Maude

In the film Harold and Maude, the character of Maude's car thefts are not met with condemnation, but rather a sense of fascination and humor. This phenomenon raises several interesting questions: Why do we, as an audience, overlook such actions when they are performed by a fictional character like Maude, but would find them unacceptable in real life?

Symbolism and Rebellion

Maudes actions in the film symbolize her rebellion against societal norms and conventions. She embodies a philosophy of living fully and embracing life, which starkly contrasts with Harold's morbid preoccupations. Her car thefts are an extension of this philosophy, highlighting her adventurous spirit and her desire for freedom.

Character Development and Zest for Life

The car thefts serve as a means to illustrate Maudes zest for life and her disregard for material possessions. Through these actions, the audience gains a deeper understanding of Maude's character. Her car thefts are not solely for personal gain, but rather as a symbol of her defiance and her pursuit of excitement. They are a part of her larger narrative of challenging societal norms and living life to the fullest.

Tone of the Film and Black Comedy

The film Harold and Maude has a darkly comedic tone, which is evident in the way Maudes antics are presented. The thefts, including stealing cars, are portrayed in a lighthearted way that invites the audience to laugh rather than take her actions too seriously. This contrast between the gravity of her actions and the films comedic tone adds to the overall impact of the narrative.

Focus on Themes and Philosophical Questions

The narrative of Harold and Maude focuses more on themes of love, life, and death than the legality of Maudes actions. The film encourages viewers to look beyond the surface and consider deeper philosophical questions. For instance, the film explores the nature of life and death, the value of human relationships, and the importance of living fully despite the inevitable conclusion of life.

Historical Context and Counter-Culture

When Harold and Maude was released in 1971, America was still dealing with the trauma of the Vietnam War and the ongoing Civil Rights Movement. The film reflects the spirit of the counterculture that emerged during the 1960s. Maude exemplifies this movement with her bold and unconventional behavior, rejecting traditional social norms and embracing a life of adventure and freedom.

Acceptance Through Fiction

It's important to note that while stealing cars in real life would be seen as unacceptable behavior, Maude's actions are more acceptable in the context of the film because they are part of a larger narrative. In real life, an elderly aunt stealing cars would be a serious offense, while in a fictional setting, her actions can be seen as a symbol of her rebellion and zest for life. The films tone and the broader themes it explores allow us to accept and appreciate Maudes actions as part of a larger story.

The humour and the darkly comedic tone of the film also play a crucial role in making us accept Maudes actions. The exaggerated and unexpected nature of her behavior contributes to the films charm and appeal. We might not approve of her actions in real life, but within the context of the film, her actions are transformed into a form of art that invites us to laugh and reflect on deeper philosophical questions.

Conclusion

While Maudes car thefts may seem outrageous in real life, in the context of the film Harold and Maude, they are embraced as a symbol of rebellion and life affirming behavior. The films tone, historical context, and the broader themes it explores all contribute to our acceptance of Maudes actions. Instead of judging her based on real-life standards, we are encouraged to appreciate the fantasy and the deeper philosophical questions that Maudes bold behavior prompts us to consider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are Maudes actions considered more acceptable in fiction?

In fiction, we are often willing to overlook certain behaviors due to the context and the broader narrative. Maudes car thefts are a part of her larger journey of rebellion and living life to the fullest. The films tone, the historical context, and the philosophical questions it raises all contribute to our acceptance of these actions.

Q: How does the film's tone affect our perception of Maudes actions?

The darkly comedic tone of the film lightens the mood around Maudes actions, making them less severe and more relatable to the audience. This tone allows us to see the humor in her behavior, which in turn helps us to accept and enjoy the story rather than disapprove of it.

Q: What is the historical significance of Maudes actions in the context of the film?

In the context of the 1960s and 1970s, when the film was released, Maudes actions reflect the spirit of the counterculture movement. Her rebellion against societal norms is a symbol of the youth seeking a more meaningful and joyous existence, which contrasts with the morbid outlook of older characters like Harold.

Q: Can you summarize the main themes of the film?

The film explores themes such as the nature of life and death, the value of human relationships, and the importance of living fully despite the inevitability of death. Maudes actions, particularly her car thefts, serve as a symbol of these themes, encouraging viewers to reflect on these deeper philosophical questions.