Metropolis · Chapter
IV explained
Joh Fredersen visits Rotwang, who unveils his creation—a faceless, obedient female android called 'Futura' or 'Parody.' Rotwang demonstrates its eerie abilities, and the two men discuss a mysterious plan found by Grot in a dead worker's poc
What happens
Joh Fredersen visits Rotwang, who unveils his creation—a faceless, obedient female android called 'Futura' or 'Parody.' Rotwang demonstrates its eerie abilities, and the two men discuss a mysterious plan found by Grot in a dead worker's pocket. Rotwang refuses to explain the plan until Fredersen reveals its origin. Meanwhile, Slim informs Fredersen that his son Freder has disappeared.
Themes in this chapter
Dehumanization by Technology
Rotwang's android is described as a 'tool'—cold, obedient, and faceless—highlighting the reduction of humanity to mechanical function.
Class Division and Exploitation
The mysterious plan found in a dead worker's pocket and the workers' secretive behavior underscore the divide between the ruling class and the labor force.
Religious and Mythological Symbolism
References to the seal of Solomon, the Tower of Babel, and the 'apple of knowledge' imbue the chapter with biblical and mythological resonance.
Characters to notice
- Joh Fredersen
Visits Rotwang, confronts the android, and learns of Freder's disappearance.
- Rotwang
Presents his android creation 'Futura' and interrogates Fredersen about the mysterious plan.
- Slim
Informs Fredersen that Freder has disappeared.
- Grot
Mentioned as the foreman who found the plan in a dead worker's pocket.
Key passages
“Be courteous, my beautiful Parody. Open the doors for the Master over the great Metropolis.”
Rotwang commands his android to politely open the door for Joh Fredersen.
Demonstrates Rotwang's control over his creation and his mocking deference to Fredersen.
“I must inform you, Mr. Fredersen, that, since your son left this room, he has disappeared!”
Slim reports to Fredersen that Freder has vanished after leaving the room.
Introduces the subplot of Freder's disappearance, adding tension to the narrative.
“Where did you get the plan?”
Rotwang demands to know the origin of the mysterious paper Fredersen showed him.
Highlights the importance of the plan and Rotwang's suspicion.