Summary Of Das Erdbeben In Chile

Das Erdbeben in Chile: A Feminist Interpretation of Kleist Das Erdbeben in Chile is a story which, on the surface, is quite linear in its progression. There is little deviation from the primary sequence of events, and these events do not overtly lend themselves to a purely feminist analysis of the novella. Upon closer examination of these events and the comparison of minor features within the text, however, one could certainly assert the validity of such an interpretation. In fact, it can be argued that the local breakdown of rigid social norms and constructs that existed prior to the earthquake itself could be viewed as a well-disguised attestation to the idea that patriarchy would not necessarily exist in the absence of institutional enforcement
Jeronimo eventually stumbles upon Josephe, who is alive and bathing their child in a stream. This is the first of many scenes in which Kleist begins to use rich, vivid descriptors in order to construct the image of an idyllic, post-earthquake environment. It is in this environment that the couple joins forces with Donna Elvire, Don Fernando, and the other families who had gathered together in the aftermath, and it is also the point in which Josephe is asked to breastfeed Donna Elvire’s son (Kleist 8). It is here that Kleist puts a prominent female character in the role of provider, and thus demonstrates a change in the power relationship between men and women in the absence of the church. The male infant cannot rely on the adult men in the group for nourishment, and so his life is entirely dependent on Josephe’s choice to feed him. This event is highly significant when analyzed within the context of feminist
The focus is no longer on the beautiful, open, and peaceful landscape, but the stifling image of man-made structures. We are reminded once more of the negative and irrational nature of patriarchal society when the group discovers that Josephe and Jeronimo are being blamed for the earthquake. Josephe’s disregard for the authority of her male keepers threatens her life once more, and this time the threat is extended to those who have accompanied her on the journey. The crowd is complicit in her punishment and viciously attacks the companions as they are trying to flee, slaying the majority of the group (Kleist