Harold and Maude Analysis

Essay 4

English Composition (.77)

The film “Harold and Maude” was written by Collin Higgins and directed by Al Hasby in 1971. The movie was nominated for two Golden Globe awards in 1972, as well as various others awards. The film has received a large number of positive feedback for its unique plot and its musical soundtrack featuring Cat Stevens. Higgins uses various symbolism, rhetorical strategies, and demonstrates through characters a new philosophy of life (Harold).

“Harold and Maude” exposes the stereotypes, symbolism and how authority has affected the outlook of life in American society. This comedy opens with young 20-year-old Harold, who has an obsession with death, and is without friends. Harold found enjoyment in performing pretend suicides in order to upset his mother, observing junk yards and attending funerals. While attending a funeral, he meets a 70-year-old lady, Maude. Maude opens a new outlook and sparks a new love for life in Harold. Maude begins to show Harold the living beauty around him. Harold falls in love with Maude and her zest for living. Meanwhile various authority figures are pulling Harold in different directions in how he should live his life (Flynn).

The comedy “Harold and Maude” was produced in the 1970’s. At this time, the American society was facing new changes such as social reforms, and political issues. Ten years leading up to the film, America was facing environmental damage, and the Vietnam War. In 1963, Congress passed the Clean Air Act which was an attempted to clean the water and air supply. Many other acts were passed in order to aid clean up for pollution, and wildlife conservations (Environmental). The Vietnam War lasted from 1945 to 1975 (Nelson). People wanted change; they were surrounded by negativity. People felt they needed to express themselves in a positive view and became outraged with government authorities. Out of these issues were social groups such as Hippies and New Lefts whom became...