# XIX explained — Metropolis

> Chapter companion for Metropolis by Thea von Harbou.

## What happens

Maria seeks refuge in the cathedral as the city descends into chaos, while Freder rescues her and they share a tender moment. She urges him to go to his father, then returns to care for the children in the 'House of the Sons.' Meanwhile, a mob pursues a girl mistaken for a witch, and the monk Desertus leads a procession of flagellants, proclaiming doomsday.

## Themes in this chapter

### Class Division and Exploitation

The contrast between the wealthy 'House of the Sons' and the desperate workers highlights class conflict, as Maria brings children to the care of former playthings.

### Rebellion and Revolution

The mob's pursuit of a scapegoat and the flagellants' procession symbolize revolutionary chaos and the breakdown of order.

### Religious and Mythological Symbolism

The cathedral, the Archangel Michael's bell, and Desertus's crucifixion imagery evoke apocalyptic and biblical themes.

## Character check-ins

### Maria

Flees to the cathedral in despair, collapses, then is rescued by Freder. She kisses him and sends him to his father, later returns to the children.

### Freder

Carries Maria to safety, expresses longing for her affection, and obeys her request to go to his father.

### Desertus

Leads the Gothics in a procession, hanging on a cross and proclaiming the destruction of the world.

### Maohee

Leads the dancers, taunting Desertus and inciting chaos.

## Key lines

> She stumbled up the cathedral steps, stumbled through the portal, perceived the odour of incense, saw little, pious candles of intercession before the image of a gentle saint who was suffering smilingly, and collapsed on to the flags.

Maria, exhausted and desperate, climbs the cathedral steps, enters, and faints on the floor amid incense and candles.

_Maria's flight to the cathedral as a refuge from the mob._

> Go to your father. That is the most hallowed wayвБ†вАКвБ†вА¶ I shall go to the children as soon as my clothes are a little dryer.

Maria tells Freder to visit his father, calling it a sacred duty, and says she will tend to the children once she is dry.

_Maria's directive to Freder, emphasizing reconciliation and her maternal role._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/metropolis_se/chapters/xix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/metropolis_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/metropolis_se/chapters