Gone with the Wind (1939) Movie Analysis & Film Criticism

[Dr. Mohammad Hossein Hariri Asl]

Gone with the Wind (1939) movie analysis and film criticism for English students to practice the 4 English skills naturally and interactively based on the English Immersion Program

Gone with the Wind (1939) movie trailer

Gone with the Wind (1939) movie analysis

“Gone with the Wind” (1939) is a classic American film that explores themes of love, loss, and survival against the backdrop of the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. The film, based on Margaret Mitchell’s novel, follows the life of Scarlett O’Hara, a strong-willed and resourceful Southern belle, as she navigates the tumultuous changes brought about by the war. The central theme of the film is the struggle for survival and the resilience needed to adapt to changing circumstances. Scarlett’s determination to preserve her family’s plantation, Tara, symbolizes the South’s fight to retain its heritage and way of life amidst the devastation of war.

The plot of “Gone with the Wind” revolves around Scarlett’s complex relationships, particularly with her unrequited love, Ashley Wilkes, and her tumultuous romance with the charming and roguish Rhett Butler. Scarlett’s character is marked by her relentless pursuit of what she desires, often at the expense of others’ happiness. This is evident in her manipulative attempts to win Ashley’s affection and her eventual marriage to Rhett, which is fraught with passion and conflict. The film portrays Scarlett’s growth and transformation as she learns harsh life lessons, often driven by her need to adapt and survive in a world that is rapidly changing around her.

Another significant theme in the film is the impact of war on society and individuals. The Civil War serves as a catalyst for drastic change, highlighting the fragility of human endeavors and the impermanence of material wealth. The war’s aftermath and the Reconstruction period underscore the challenges of rebuilding and the bitter realities faced by the South. Scarlett’s journey is a microcosm of the larger struggle for survival and renewal, reflecting the broader societal shifts and the enduring spirit of those who lived through one of the most challenging periods in American history. Through its rich storytelling and complex characters, “Gone with the Wind” remains a poignant exploration of love, loss, and resilience.

Discussion questions

1. How do Scarlett O’Hara’s relationships with Ashley Wilkes and Rhett Butler reflect her personal growth and the changing social dynamics of the South during the Civil War and Reconstruction era?
2. In what ways does the film use the character of Scarlett to explore themes of survival and resilience in the face of hardship and societal change?
3. How does “Gone with the Wind” portray the impact of the Civil War on Southern society, and what commentary does it provide on the concepts of heritage and transformation?

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