W5.1 April 1 (Monday)——WANG YUERONG

 Plot Overview

Set in Casablanca, Morocco, during the early years of World War II, the film centers around Rick Blaine, who owns a nightclub. His life takes a tumultuous turn when Ilsa Lund, a woman he loved deeply in Paris, walks back into his life with her husband, Victor Laszlo. They are trying to secure exit visas to escape the Nazi-occupied Europe. As Rick navigates his emotions and moral dilemmas, he becomes entangled in a web of political intrigue and personal sacrifice.

Analysis through Goffman's Theory：

1.Front Stage and Back Stage

In "Casablanca," Rick's nightclub, "Rick's Café Américain," serves as a perfect representation of Goffman's front stage and back stage. On the front stage, Rick maintains a facade of neutrality and cynicism, portraying himself as indifferent to the political turmoil around him. This front stage persona helps him navigate the complexities of wartime Casablanca, where appearances can be deceiving. Behind the scenes, however, Rick reveals his true convictions and moral compass, which drive his decisions to support the resistance efforts against the Nazis. This contrast between front stage and back stage illustrates Goffman's concept of how individuals manage their public personas versus their private realities.

2.Frames and Performances

Each character in "Casablanca" operates within distinct frames and performances, influenced by their motivations and allegiances. Rick's frame is that of a disillusioned and self-serving businessman, focused solely on profit and self-preservation. This performance allows him to navigate Casablanca's treacherous political landscape without drawing unnecessary attention to his true sympathies. In contrast, characters like Victor Laszlo and Ilsa Lund perform roles of resistance leaders, whose frame revolves around freedom and defiance against tyranny. Their performances are integral to the larger narrative of resistance and hope amidst despair.

3.The Coordinator

Rick Blaine serves as the coordinator in Goffman's theory within the context of "Casablanca." Initially portrayed as a detached observer, Rick evolves into a pivotal figure who orchestrates pivotal moments in the lives of those around him. His decisions to aid Victor and Ilsa in their escape demonstrate his role as a coordinator, facilitating outcomes that align with his underlying values of justice and altruism. This transformation underscores Goffman's idea that individuals can play pivotal roles in shaping social dynamics and outcomes, even within constrained and perilous environments.

4.Conclusion

"Casablanca" not only captivates audiences with its timeless romance and dramatic tension but also offers a profound exploration of human behavior and moral dilemmas. Through the lens of Goffman's sociological theory—front stage and back stage dynamics, frames and performances, and the role of the coordinator—we gain deeper insights into the characters' motivations and the film's enduring appeal. It remains a testament to the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of moral courage in the face of adversity.

Through "Casablanca," we witness how individuals navigate personal and political turmoil, making choices that define their identities and impact their destinies. This exploration continues to resonate, making "Casablanca" not just a cinematic masterpiece but a reflection of timeless themes that transcend generations.

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