The Lighthouse Explained
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The Lighthouse, a 2019 psychological horror film directed by Robert Eggers, follows two lighthouse keepers descending into madness while isolated on a remote island. Filled with haunting imagery, ambiguous symbolism, and powerful performances by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, the movie has sparked much discussion and analysis since its release.
What Does Thomas Howard See in the Light?
Thomas Howard, a renowned author and scholar, offers a unique perspective on the symbolism of light in his critique of modern secularism. In his book "Chance or the Dance? A Critique of Modern Secularism," Howard contrasts the "old myth" where everything holds meaning with the "new myth" of post-Enlightenment thinking
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. For Howard, light represents more than mere illumination; it symbolizes divine revelation and the search for transcendent truth.
Howard's interpretation of light aligns with the themes explored in "The Lighthouse," where the characters' obsession with the lighthouse's beam reflects a deeper quest for meaning and enlightenment. While the film portrays this pursuit as potentially destructive, Howard's perspective suggests that seeking the light can lead to a more profound understanding of existence and purpose. This contrast between secular and spiritual interpretations of light adds another layer to the film's complex symbolism, inviting viewers to consider the broader implications of the characters' struggle with illumination and darkness.1 source
What Happens At The End Of The Lighthouse?
The ending of "The Lighthouse" is a rich tapestry of symbolism and mythological references that leaves audiences pondering its meaning long after the credits roll. As the film concludes, Thomas Howard, the character played by Robert Pattinson, finally gains access to the lighthouse's beacon, only to be overwhelmed by its blinding light. This climactic moment draws parallels to the myth of Prometheus, who was punished for stealing fire from the gods. In Howard's case, his quest for forbidden knowledge leads to his downfall, as he is later seen lying on the rocks, being pecked at by seagulls—a fate reminiscent of Prometheus' eternal torment
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The film's conclusion also nods to Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," where the slaying of an albatross brings misfortune upon a ship's crew. Similarly, Howard's earlier act of killing a seagull—a creature believed by his colleague Thomas Wake to harbor the souls of dead sailors—sets off a chain reaction of doom and madness1
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. The lighthouse's light can be interpreted as a metaphor for divine revelation or enlightenment, yet it ultimately proves destructive for Howard, suggesting that some truths are too powerful for mortals to comprehend3
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Themes and Symbolism Explored
Isolation and madness are central themes in "The Lighthouse," as the film delves into the psychological effects of extreme seclusion. The two characters, trapped on a remote island, gradually lose their grip on reality, plagued by hallucinations and paranoia. This descent into madness is accentuated by the film's claustrophobic setting, enhanced by its stark black-and-white cinematography and unique 1.19:1 aspect ratio, which amplifies the sense of entrapment and mental deterioration
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The film also explores mythological references, drawing heavily from Greek myths like those of Prometheus and Proteus. Winslow's obsession with the lighthouse's light parallels Prometheus' quest for forbidden knowledge, ultimately leading to his punishment—being pecked alive by seagulls, akin to Prometheus' eternal torment3
. Additionally, the lighthouse symbolizes power and control; Wake's refusal to let Winslow access the light represents his dominance over him. This power struggle culminates in Winslow's violent rebellion and downfall when he finally reaches the light4
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Related
How does the film's use of black-and-white cinematography enhance the themes of isolation and madness
What are the key mythological references in The Lighthouse and how do they relate to the characters' actions
How does the aspect ratio of 1.19:1 contribute to the sense of claustrophobia in the film
What is the significance of the lighthouse as a symbol of power and control in the story
How does the film depict the complexities of masculinity and repressed homoerotic tension between the characters
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