For Griet, the young maid, which decision would be better: To marry a butcher or to remain single after she left Vermeer's house?
The film entitled "Girl with a Pearl Earring" was adapted from by Tracy Chevalier's novel of the same title. Centered around Vermeer's 1665 painting of an unknown girl with turban, this invented story deals with the issue of a young woman's awakening from her social postions and her decisions to decide her own fate.
For the painter Vermeer, Griet served the double roles of assitant and Muse, who inspired him and helped him. For the art collector/sponser, Griet was but another sexual object and her painting, another piece of art collection for private sexual fantasy. For Vermeer's mother-in-law, Griet was just instrumental--to help his son-in-law complete painting and earn some money. For Vermeer's wife, Griet was an intruder and a threat.
Caught in this web of interhuman relation and situated in different positions, Griet finally woke up from her dream of being a Muse and faced the cruel reality that she was just a maid. As a husband and with the painting finished, Vermeer was in no position to protect Griet anymore. His committment to her and need for her were simply in art world, not in reality. Griet was forced to leave.
In the novel, Griet married Peter and became a butcher's wife and mother of two sons. Peter never asked Griet about the ear piercing and they lived a good and happy life. Vermeer died in poverty and most of his possesstions had to go through auction. In his will, he deliberately indicated that the pair of pearl earrings should go to Griet: In his mind, Griet matched with the pearl earring and he requested to see Griet's painting again before he died. After Griet received the earrings, she sold them and used the money to pay the debt Vermeer's family owed Peter, for she thought that a butcher's wife was in not position to war pearl earrings.
In the movie, Griet just went home to resume her role of a daughter. When the pair of pearl earrings arrived in her hands, she realized that her contribution to Vermeer's family was finally recognized and her devotion to be Vermeer's model and assitant was finally appreciated. The director of the film seemed to leave Griet's marrital decision open: Her decision to marry Peter or not was not related with the incident at Vermeer's house. She didn't have to rush a marriage after quitting the job at Vermeer's house.
Discussion topic:
Which ending do you prefer? Why?
Please post your comments below. Don't forget to leave your name. Thank you!
I support Griet's decision to marry Peter, the butcher, after she left Vermeer's house. There are several reasons. For one, Griet and her family would have meat at dinner table and none of them would starve. In the future, Griet would have children, and they would be raised with enough food. I think this is one of the basic requirements for a marriage to stand. Do you think I am too practical?
ReplyDeleteComment by Ju-ying Huang
I prefer the ending with the novel. After all, she needed to face the reality. I think Griet's love affair with Mr. Vermeer is nothing but a fantasy. I don't think she would own happiness being with Mr. Vermeer because there'd be lots of issues suspended; it's the 17th century, though. She would own the true happiness being with Peter, the one she's been with; they love each other for one thing. Besides, she'd be able to feed her family and have a stable life.
ReplyDeleteComment by Jocelyn 96872304
I prefer the ending of the movie that Griet left Vermeer's house and came back home. The movie's end inspires readers to use their creativities to think about what would happened after Griet got the pearl earrings and lets audiences themselves to decide the ending in their minds. Another reason is that the ending of the book seems too satisfactory. It's like that most of people are used to a perfect and beautiful ending just like all fairy tales'.
ReplyDeleteComment by Angela Hu 96540345
I perfer the movie ending as I think Griet need some time to think about what she wants in her future life after all. If she married Peter right away after leaving Vermeer's house, it might show that she just wanted to escape from the nonrecognition of the Vermeers. Griet played too many roles for them, and she might lost herself as well.(Just like what Pro. Vinia mentioned that she once dreamt being a Muse and forgot about her role in the reality.) So, if she just made the decision immediately, she might lose the judgement to tell whether she really needed a man to rely on. If there is really a true love between Peter and Griet. She would still marry him after a thoughtful consideration.
ReplyDeleteComment by Julia Hang 96540321
Jocelyn made a point by stating that between Griet and Vermeer there was fantasy. However, this fantasy is so true and so real in the art world but it won't stand in reality. We can see that after Vermeer's wife found out the painting and got very emotional, Vermeer didn't choose to defend Griet. (Of course, the painting was completely and there was no place for Griet in Vermeer's art world for the time being.)
ReplyDeleteGriet was forced to leave Vermeer's house and with her departure, she was excluded from the art world and stepped into a world that she called "reality." There is a division between art and life, a differentiation between fantasy and reality. However, art swings in between: Art is a lie that tells the truth; art is fantasy that reveals the truth of reality.
Whoever left the comment above me made a really good point on how art works in this movie, how it tells the truth of reality. i actually prefer the book version because that's where Griet belongs to in terms of social status, that's where she'd find herself and that's the kind of life she is born to have, you know, worked as a maid formerly and then being together with peter the butcher afterward. I think happiness is one of the most important things in life and if Griet is being described to live happily ever after then i don't see why i'd go against the novel ending. After all, Vermeer is taken and is not allowed to fall in love with any other woman beside his wife, according to morality.
ReplyDeleteComment by Michelle 96540451
I like the endling of the movie since Griet choosed the one who fits her. Besides, I am not in for taboo love. Vermeer should be responsible for his marriage.
ReplyDeleteBy Annie 95540450
I support Griet to get marry with Peter like the ending in the novel. Although i think there is nothing wrong to fall in love with whoever you have the "special feeling" to, even in the case like Griet and Vermeer. However, when it comes to marrige things are not that simple and esay anymore. I think it is very important for a woman to choose the "right spouse" since once you fail the price you pay will be your percious youthhood and the happiness of you and your family. Marry to Peter, the one who loves her very much and she likes, should be the best not only for her but also for the sake of her whole family. Even though we all know that as a butcher can't amke a lot of money and, of course, will not afford to buy luxuries such as jewelries, but at least it is a stable job which can ensure you to have a regular income and can also make a living. For instance, Griet's parents can have a better living condition and get better care; at the same time, most importantly, for the first time in her life she can finally get a chacne to be her own master which means that she no longer need to follow or obey what others want or tell her to do. She can have the freedom to do what she wants to do without asking/ begging for others' permission. Besides, marry to someone who loves you more than you love him is always better than to marry someone you love more than he does. So I think that marry to Peter is the right choice for her.
ReplyDeleteComment by Eva Wang 95540460
I agree with the movie's ending that Griet should have a second thought for her future. The love between Griet and Vermeer is so fantasy, and even ambiguous that makes others will guess whether or not they overstep the relationship between maid and master. If Griet choices novel’s ending to marry Peter, it makes Peter become “cuckold” that will be jeered in his whole life. So I think Griet not only should think about her future, but also should stand in Peter’s shoes.
ReplyDeleteComment by Daisy Chung 96540327
I feel the ending of the movie is too ambiguous for audience to understand the inner meaning; therefore, I prefer the happy ending of the novel that Griet and Peter become couples, and I have the following reasons. First, I think that Peter loves Griet pretty much and once promises her to give her stable life if she marries him. Second, Peter doesn’t mind that Griet is a maid, and he always be the one who really care for her. Third, Griet doesn’t have to be a maid to obey other’s words anymore if she marries to Peter, and she also won’t be teased by bad bigwigs. Finally, I think that Griet will never own happy life if she chooses to be Mr. Vermeer’s mistress. Those are the reasons why I prefer the ending of the novel.
ReplyDeleteComment by Betty Lee 96540315
Actually, no matter what Griet chooses to marry a butcher or to remain single, it would depend on what she wants. At the ending of the movie, Griet is going to be single and doesn’t get married with her boyfriend, Peter. Nowadays, there are most of the woman would still like to be a lovely bride, and some of them do want to have a reliance. So I think it’s a kind of feminism to revise the story’s ending. For me, it is a pity for Griet to marry a butcher or remain single, I prefer to see the happy ending that she find her true love.
ReplyDeleteComment by Millia Lin 96540307
After comparing the endings in the novel and in the movie, I prefer the ending in the movie which was that Griet went home and played the role of a daughter. Because of the rising raising feminine consciousness nowadays, I don’t think Griet should follow the traditional norms. In my opinion, the move seemed to enhance the position of women, telling that the devotion of women should be respected and appreciated not being taken for granted. On the other hand, the choice of Griet was right because there is no need for her to be in the haste to marry someone as soon as she left Vermeer’s house.
ReplyDelete96540313 Joy Chuang
I think for Griet, she would remain single after she left Vermeer's house. This would be better ! I don't think she really love Mr. Vermeer;also, I think she is not suitable to fallin love with anyone else at least for a short time. In my eyes, she is a girl who is not that bad but also is not good enough. I think that She is attracted to those gorgeous things after she enter Vermeer's house.
ReplyDeleteI prefer the ending of the movie. For Griet doesn't do anything wrong, she should have the rights to determine her own future. She can even be an artist herself for having the talent. The fact that Griet has the talent and the passion for painting shouldn't be denied and ignored only because of her social status. Besides, it's not her own will to work with Vermmer. It's the Vermmer's wife who asks Griet to clean the studio at first. She just plays her role-- to be an obedient maid and accept the commands. It's just a job. And she herself knows that. Therefore, there is no need for her to prove or explain to anybody. She can just be herself.
ReplyDelete96540344 Ann
I personally like the ending of the movie since Griet chooses the one who fits her. Besides, I am not in for taboo love. Vermeer should be faithful with his marriage.
ReplyDeleteI am Annie Chang (95540450)
The movie tells us that we should not decide to get married simply because we meet some troubles at the work place. If Griet decided to get married in order to have meat to eat, to work, and to have a family, she would be very practical and realistic. Was Griet such a down-to-earth woman? Maybe not yet! Therefore, I think the movie has a more resonable ending.
ReplyDeleteI think the novel has a better ending than that of the movie because marriage requires good compatibility in social status. A maid and a butcher can make a good couple, while a maid and a painter have a wide divide between them, especially when the painter is already married with many children. Marriage has a good start when the two are compatible from social, cultural, and economical perspectives. This is normally the case, but not always.
ReplyDeleteI think to merry is to make a big decision. It can't be put in a rush way! I also think that two poeple should have the similar background and should be single of course. Iknow that there re some exception in the world , also a lot on the TV. But those case are" exception", not"always".
ReplyDeleteComment by Alexa
I agree with the ending of the movie. I would say that she fell in love with Peter and Vermeer at the same time. I really do not think it is a good idea to make a decision soon after she left. It is very important to clear one's mind before you might do anything regretful.
ReplyDeleteComment by Ella 96540341
i think i prefer the ending of the novel~
ReplyDeleteit's really good to find somebody to take care of you or one who really loves you.
I like also the idea of vending the pair of peal earings...Everything sounds in a mess at the beginning, but Griet does something really fantastic. It seems that the characters don't owe each other anything.It's a well organized happy ending.
comment by Anita
i think i prefer the ending of the novel~
ReplyDeleteit's really good to find somebody to take care of you or one who really loves you.
I like also the idea of vending the pair of peal earings...Everything sounds in a mess at the beginning, but Griet does something really fantastic. It seems that the characters don't owe each other anything.It's a well organized happy ending.
I prefer the moving ending.
ReplyDeleteIn fact, I was confused after watching this movie, it seemed that everything remainded unsolved and I actually kind of disliked the movie kept so many things unclear. However, now I understand the idea this movie tries to convey after reading this article, instead of chooseing the book ending, I prefer the movie ending. It is better and much more interesting to leave the end open for us to imagine, the movie version makes this story profounder.
96540322 Jasmine
I think it will be wise for Griet to stay single for a period of time rather than rushing to marry Peter for these reasons: firstly, she needs more time to think about her future life and to make up her mind about her marriage. Secondly, if she chooses to marry Peter right after leaving Vermeer's house, it shows her weakness of not being able to overcome the difficulties in her life, and it also shows that she wants to marry him not because she loves him but because she wants to run away from her previous problems and feelings. Moreover, we don’t know whether her love for Peter is a real one or it’s only an Eros for whenever she sees Vermeer and his wife close to each other, she goes to Peter to empty her sexual desires which makes us to doubt about her love for Peter. Therefore, if she marries him and once she finds that she does not really love him, I don’t think she will be happy about it. After all, marriage decision making is far much greater than only meeting someone and rushing to marry him or her because marriage is not only about desire or food or having a spouse in life, but it is about love, respect, sharing opinions ...and etc. Furthermore, prior to marriage, one should take into account the fact that one’s spouse will be her or his partner in her or his life. For all the above reasons, I think it is better for Griet to remain single for a period of time.
ReplyDeleteBahyan 96540352
Before the movie came to the end, I was hoping that Griet and Vermeer would get together in the end in that I thought they loved each other deep in their heart, and loved ones ought to be together. However, to wish is one thing, but to face the reality is another thing. Sometimes we can’t just follow what we want but to take everything into consideration; therefore, we may need to throw away our wishes, hopes, and desires and succumb to the cruel reality—to live, to eat, to pay, etc. For me, love can conquer everything won’t be a suitable phrase to apply in the movie. The society in the movie played down the role of the heroine, the maid, quite unfair and lack of respect, let alone to love and receive equally like others. Therefore, the future for Griet might be better off if she marries to Peter.
ReplyDeleteCharlene Yang 95540456
Since Griet deciding her lover and marriage herself echoes feminism, I prefer the ending in the movie. Griet acting independent proves female are not necessary to rely on males.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I agree with the movie director’s arrangement of Griet: Leaving more space to Griet to think over about her own future. During the time Griet staying at home, she could cool down her fancy to Vermeer; Also, Griet perhaps would neither choose marry to Vermeer nor Peter. To live on her own probably violates the context, A.D. 1665; however, leaving Griet alone at the end of the movie absolutely implicates Griet would make her way out of the mess on her own. As long as Griet have more time, she is allowed to absorb various ideas so to improve her decision on whatever her marriage or her lover.
To talk about her marriage, I hope she’ll marry to the butcher. For the reason that I’ve already known Vermeer would bankrupt in the near future. At least, Marrying to Griet would neither starve nor worry about debt.
I think it was a right decision for Griet to remain single after leaving Vermeer’s house. The hostess was a crazy woman, and so did her mother. She was so arrogant that she never treated her maids well. She has bad temper; she got angry easily. She didn’t have to do anything at home. The only important thing she did was gibing a birth to her children. Therefore, if Griet stayed there, she might have to bear the pressure from the hostess.
ReplyDeleteIf Griet married to the butcher, I don’t think she would be happy. Although the ending of the book is that Griet had two sons, I don’t think that was true love. I guess Griet might love Vermeer. She didn’t have to force herself to marry to a man that she didn’t love. Therefore, I think it was better to stay single and didn’t marry to anyone.
P.S I really don’t understand why borrowing the pearl ear rings from the hostess could make the hostess mad like that.
I think it was a right decision for Griet to remain single after leaving Vermeer’s house. The hostess was a crazy woman, and so did her mother. She was so arrogant that she never treated her maids well. She has bad temper; she got angry easily. She didn’t have to do anything at home. The only important thing she did was gibing a birth to her children. Therefore, if Griet stayed there, she might have to bear the pressure from the hostess.
ReplyDeleteIf Griet married to the butcher, I don’t think she would be happy. Although the ending of the book is that Griet had two sons, I don’t think that was true love. I guess Griet might love Vermeer. She didn’t have to force herself to marry to a man that she didn’t love. Therefore, I think it was better to stay single and didn’t marry to anyone.
P.S I really don’t understand why borrowing the pearl ear rings from the hostess could make the hostess mad like that.
I prefer the ending of the movie!!
ReplyDeleteI think not only Griet but other people should find someone who truly fits them, so I support Griet's decision in the end. It's inappropriate that making a decision on an impulse. However, no matter Griet married to Peter or Vermeers, she should be responsible for her own future.
Quinney 96540312
Actually, I was not surprised when I heard the ending in the book which Griet married Peter. I think they like each other, so they have a happy ending. However, I don’t really understand the affections between Vermmer and Griet. I think Vermmer likes Griet but she is not sure her feeling with him. Maybe it is because Vermmer has a marriage and Griet is a maid, so the relationship between them is not easy to change. Therefore, I think Griet should clear out her feeling with Peter and Vermmer, and then she would make a better decision. So, the ending I prefer is that Griet married Peter than she is being with Vermmer.
ReplyDeleteGladys 96540323
I think Griet should not marry Peter immediately after she left Vermeer's house. She has to think about whether she really loves Peter or not and also her future. Perhaps she can stay single for a period of time, and probably she meets her true love at that time. Amanda 96540337
ReplyDeleteI prefer the movie’s ending. But, to be honest, I have no idea about what the ending is trying to tell us until I finish reading teacher’s article. The movie’s ending does not explain why the old fat maid gives Griet these pearl earrings. And it really confuses me. However, I think it is a good ending. Why? It gives the audience a huge space to imagine. It could be that Vermeer’s wife does not want to wear the earrings anymore for those have been stained by Griet. It could be that Vermeer’s daughter thinks those belong to Griet. It has lots of possibilities. Therefore, it gives the audience subjects to talk about after walking out the theater. And, it gives the audience a desire to look for the truth of the ending.
ReplyDeleteby Mark Lee 96540332
I think Griet should not marry Peter immediately after she left Vermeer's house. She has to think about whether she really loves Peter or not and also her future. Perhaps she can stay single for a period of time, and probably she meets her true love at that time. Amanda 96540337
ReplyDeleteI have wondered Griet’s hair since the beginnig of this moive. Why does she have her hair covered? Is it a custom? However, it is still a mistery after I have finished this moive. Besides, I admire Vermeer’s talent of art. His paintings are so vivid, especially, the portrait of Griet. But, I have sympathy for Griet. She is such a traditional woman in that time. Although Griet gets married with Peter, I think she jsut hides the feeling of Vermeer in her mind.
ReplyDeleteby Ronne Cheng 96540326
I prefer the ending with the novel. The story should give readers the right to know what will happen for this poor maid. In the novel, Griet gets married and Vermeer bankrupt finally. This is what I would like to see.
ReplyDeleteBy Angela Chen 96540325
In my opinion,i would prefer the ending of the novel.Everyone needs a person who is really care about him/her,and who will always be there. So do Griet.For her,Peter is the one who could do these stuff,and he is the one who could give her a better life rather than beig a maid. Of course she has the rights to choose the life she wants,and i do believe that she finds that Peter is a good choice for her,both in the reality and mental part.
ReplyDeleteby Grace Su 96540342
I prefer the movie version, but just like others, I was confused when seeing the end of the movie. After reading the comparison Vinia made, I got more about it. Furthermore, I am agree with Bahyan's point of view. I think Griet has a explorative timid personality. She is trying to pursue what she really wants. However, leaving the ex-master's home and marrying a butcher seems to be a doubtful choice, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteBy Jimmy Hsiao 96540340
I prefer the movie version, but just like others, I was confused when seeing the end of the movie. After reading the comparison Vinia made, I got more about it. Furthermore, I am agree with Bahyan's point of view. I think Griet has a explorative timid personality. She is trying to pursue what she really wants. However, leaving the ex-master's home and marrying a butcher seems to be a doubtful choice, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteBy Jimmy Hsiao 96540340
In my opinion,i would prefer the ending of the novel.Everyone needs a person who is really care about him/her,and who will always be there. So do Griet.For her,Peter is the one who could do these stuff,and he is the one who could give her a better life rather than beig a maid. Of course she has the rights to choose the life she wants,and i do believe that she finds that Peter is a good choice for her,both in the reality and in the mental part.
ReplyDeleteby Grace Su 96540342
I would prefer the ending which is written by the novel. In the novel version, Griet become the wife of the butcher after all the bad things passed. The reason why I like this kind of ending is because that I think Griet should have a happy life after she was forced to leave Vermeer's house, she deserved it. I also like the arrangement of the pearl earings, no matter how did Griet deal with them, she deserved it, too.
ReplyDeleteBy Cindy Chen 96540335
To remain single or to marry Peter? Of course, marry Peter would be a better choice. Not only that Peter could provide Griet financial support, but also true care. We all know that in the past, to marry someone was not because you did love him, but because what after marry him, for example, he would provide you a better enviroment...etc. So for Griet's marriage to Peter is a better choice.
ReplyDeleteI prefer the novel's ending. The thesis of the movie centers on Griet's realization of her social status, and in the end of the novel, she understood being a maid that that was not necessary to keep the earring. A more completed ending.
By Sunny 96540318
Actually, I was not surprised when I heard the ending in the book which Griet married Peter. I think they like each other, so they have a happy ending. However, I don’t really understand the affections between Vermmer and Griet. I think Vermmer likes Griet but she is not sure her feeling with him. Maybe it is because Vermmer has a marriage and Griet is a maid, so the relationship between them is not easy to change. Therefore, I think Griet should clear out her feeling with Peter and Vermmer, and then she would make a better decision. So, the ending I prefer is that Griet married Peter than she is being with Vermmer.
ReplyDeleteGladys Chen 96540323
I like the ending of the novel. I think that it's the best choice for Griet to live a stable life because she didn't have to worry about too many things. Although they may not lead a rich life, they definitely will have enough money to support their family. And Peter loved her very much. They could lead a normal but happy life.
ReplyDeleteBy Jocelyn Chen 96540317
I think it was a right decision for Griet to remain single after leaving Vermeer’s house. The hostess was a crazy woman, and so did her mother. She was so arrogant that she never treated her maids well. She has bad temper; she got angry easily. She didn’t have to do anything at home. The only important thing she did was gibing a birth to her children. Therefore, if Griet stayed there, she might have to bear the pressure from the hostess.
ReplyDeleteIf Griet married to the butcher, I don’t think she would be happy. Although the ending of the book is that Griet had two sons, I don’t think that was true love. I guess Griet might love Vermeer. She didn’t have to force herself to marry to a man that she didn’t love. Therefore, I think it was better to stay single and didn’t marry to anyone.
P.S I really don’t understand why borrowing the pearl ear rings from the hostess could make the hostess mad like that.
Sharon Lin 96540329
Vermeer's wife is jealous of Griet, whose youthful beauty has apparently attracted the art patron in the first place. Trying to stir up the wife's insecurity to get even with Vermeer's protection of Griet from his claws, he mentioned to her that "Vermeer paints young girl." In addition, when the wife was wearing the pearl earrings, Vermeer turned to Griet and asked her to notice the light and shadow on the mistress' neck. Wearing pearl earrings is a symbol of social status and pride, but know her husband just ignore the attention she considered hers. Therefore, when she saw the painting, she realized a lot of cases of transgression here: Griet was painted; Griet knew about art; Griet looked very sexy; Griet had the symbol of her pride, i.e., the pearl earrings, etc. She could not bear it: She herself kept on producing babies and was aging rapidly. Furthermore, she was excluded from Vermeer's art world. However, Griet was excluded too: She was never to be part of Vermeer's life, nor family. What she lacked in her experience with Vermeer could be fulfilled in the life with Peter, except art, of course. Can we have everything in life? Can art and life be fulfilled at the same time? Or, art is a compensation for the imperfection of life?
ReplyDeleteComment by Vinia Huang
For Mark:
ReplyDeleteHair is the symbol for wild passions, especially red hair. To hide one's hair is to keep you virginity and to hold your love fantasy at bay. To cover your hair and your face is to conceal your sexual longings and true self. At the same time, the covering also stops others from knowing your desire and passion.
Comment by Ju-ying Huang
Honestly, I prefer the ending of the movie. It’s quite better for Griet to remain single than rushing a marriage with peter. She can still take her time to deliberate upon her own future. By the way, nothing could be more representative of men’s dishonesty and immorality than Vermeer. He is immoral.
ReplyDeleteBy Annon chung 96540320
To remain single or to marry Peter? Of course, marry Peter would be a better choice. Not only that Peter could provide Griet financial support, but also true care. In the past, to marry someone was not because you did love him, but because what after marrying him, for example, he would provide you a better enviroment...etc. So for Griet's marriage to Peter is a better choice.
ReplyDeleteI prefer the novel's ending. The thesis of the movie centers on Griet's realization of her social status, and in the end of the novel, she had to face the reality and made the decesion.
By Sunny 96540318
Before the movie came to the end, I was hoping that Griet and Vermeer would get together in the end in that I thought they loved each other deep in their heart, and loved ones ought to be together. However, to wish is one thing, but to face the reality is another thing. Sometimes we can’t just follow what we want but to take everything into consideration; therefore, we may need to throw away our wishes, hopes, and desires and succumb to the cruel reality—to live, to eat, to pay, etc. For me, love can conquer everything won’t be a suitable phrase to apply in the movie. The society in the movie played down the role of the heroine, the maid, quite unfair and lack of respect, let alone to love and receive equally like others. Therefore, the future for Griet might be better off if she marries to Peter.
ReplyDeleteCharlene Yang 95540456
I prefer the ending in the novel because Griet finally doesn't need to serve proud rich people anymore. Instead of being controlled, Griet can have her own complete happily family; she has a husband who loves her truely and two sons. In my opinion, no matter in the past or in the present, having a happily family is the best thing in the world for women.
ReplyDelete96540328 Erita
I personally like the ending of the novel. it shows us a better view of whole story, so that won't leave a doubt about why the ring was given to Griet.
ReplyDeleteGary Chen 95540326
I like the ending of the movie because it can leave many possibilities of the story. its content is also close to our reality.
ReplyDeleteSteven Yang 96540304
I think I would prefer the ending of the movie. From the movie, Griet feels a connection to Vermeer. You can see their interaction; it's so ambiguous, just like a couple. But because Vermeer is married, they cannot make known their love.
ReplyDeleteAnd I also think Griet has a sublime sentiment. Her mind isn't clouded by material desires. So, she would not marry Peter, even though she will have a well-fed and well-clad life.
By Lisa Chan 96540347
I think I would prefer the ending of the movie. From the movie, Griet feels a connection to Vermeer. You can see their interaction; it's so ambiguous, just like a couple. But because Vermeer is married, they cannot make known their love.
ReplyDeleteAnd I also think Griet has a sublime sentiment. Her mind isn't clouded by material desires. So, she would not marry Peter, even though she will have a well-fed and well-clad life.
By Lisa Chan 96540347
I'm Lester 96540310. I like the movie ending. After consideration, actucally, I prefer the movie's emphasis on her devotion to the artist, but not on her marriage decision.
ReplyDeletePersonally, i prefer the ending of the novel~it's always good to find somebody who loves you deeply and who can take care of you for the rest of your life.Sometimes when you follow your heart, it doesn't necessary lead to an happy ending.
ReplyDeleteI also like the part where the author set up that Griet sell the pearl earings for her master's(and lover's) debt. It seems at the end, any of the characters owe something to each other.
by 95540458 Anita
I like the ending of the novel. Although being with a butcher may not lead a rich life, Griet and Peter still could have enough money to support their family. They could live a normal but happy life. Griet didn't have to be a maid anymore. She finally had the right to live her own life.
ReplyDeleteBy 96540317 Jocelyn Chen
I like the ending in the movie. It seems that to marry Peter is so-called "happy ending." Griet lost her virginity symbolically to Vermeer at first, and I am wondering that does Griet really love Peter or just take him as a back up?
ReplyDeleteWhat is Griet’s strongest desire? Which side should she turn to? The forbidden lover or the simple pursuer?
ReplyDeleteI think it would be better for Griet to stay with Peter. Undoubtedly, Peter may not be able to provide her as much material life as Vermeer may, however, less is more. Marriage isn’t just about the two more people but involves the whole family, the social circle and so on. The life being with Peter will be simpler and more peaceful even though the happiness seems plain, it lasts longer.
Pearl is the symbol of wealth and purity in the story; moreover, I think the process of forming a pearl is symbolic as well. When a clam is unable to get rid of an intruded foreign stimulus, it produces some kind of chemical element and wraps the foreign body. It takes a long time for a pearl to form, along with a lot of pain. The pearls on the earrings are so big and glossy, yet, they were made from tears of other livings.
Melissa Wong 95540455
Before the movie came to the end, I was hoping that Griet and Vermeer would get together in the end in that I thought they loved each other deep in their heart, and loved ones ought to be together. However, to wish is one thing, but to face the reality is another thing. Sometimes we can’t just follow what we want but to take everything into consideration; therefore, we may need to throw away our wishes, hopes, and desires and succumb to the cruel reality—to live, to eat, to pay, etc. For me, love can conquer everything won’t be a suitable phrase to apply in the movie. The society in the movie played down the role of the heroine, the maid, quite unfair and lack of respect, let alone to love and receive equally like others. Therefore, the future for Griet might be better off if she marries to Peter.
ReplyDeleteCharlene Yang 95540456
Getting married with Peter might be a better choice for Griet. If she stayed single, she might be lonely for the whole life. Also, since she was so enchanting, being single might lead to more men's disturbance. But if she married Peter, she wouldn't be alone. Although they might not live a rich life, Griet got a family which could also bring her happiness. At least, she was not a maid and struggled for living.
ReplyDeleteJosie Chuang 96540331
Honestly, I prefer the ending of the movie. It’s quite better for Griet to remain single than rushing a marriage with peter. She can still take her time to deliberate upon her own future. By the way, nothing could be more representative of men’s dishonesty and immorality than Vermeer. He is immoral.
ReplyDeleteBy Annon chung 96540320
Actually, I support that Griet ought to consider this issue for a while. Needless to say, i think Griet should not think about getting marry with Vermeer. Griet is just a maid, and she can't do something to overstep her authority. All she ought to know is who she is and what she needs to do. At this time, i think it is a war between wealth and ethic. No matter what Griet wants to do, there are still big prices waiting for her. Therefore, i will suggest Griet consider this issue clearly.
ReplyDeletesorry, vinia! i do this job late. sorry about this! Hope you can forgive me!
ReplyDeleteMoreover, i forget to leave my personal information. if you have any problem about my opinion, please ask me. THANKS!!!
To tell the truth, I like the ending of the movie. If the maid, Griet, have something related with her master, then I would not think she is a good girl. I also think that everyone should keep themselves, because the relationship should be more pure.
ReplyDeleteIt's by Emily Wu 96540319
I prefer the ending in the novel. Griet seems to have more women’s rights and be more independent in the way she copes with the earrings. Though the ending of the novel isn't a happy ending in some people's opinions, it makes me feel that Griet really can control her own life and make good decisions for her own. Although I have never read the novel, I don’t think that Griet really thinks she can’t wear those earrings. From another aspect to view the ending, I think that she takes pity on Vermeer in the end and helps his family to pay the debt.
ReplyDeleteBy Alan Yen 96540306
I liked the ending of the movie because Vermeer has family and he is responsible of his wife and his family. Griet with Peter will be happier than to be with Vermeer.
ReplyDeleteBy Kezhan (96540350)
This is a strong spirit art movie. I can find that Griet has ability and talent of art from her answer when Vermeer asks her what color are clouds. In addition,it is so complicated relationship between Vermeer and Griet. And Vermeer's mother-in-law treats his paints as a tool of making money. Vermeer's wife is so angry that Griet wears her earrings in the end of story, because she take the earrings as her treasure. Eventually, Vermeer takes the earrings of his wife to Griet that means Vermeer attachs important to Griet than his wife. This movie is full of incompatible relationship in the plots, and every plot can let me to think deeply. Anyway, I enjoy it, even though I can not figure out the in the end of the story.
ReplyDeleteBy Cherry (96540305)
I prefer the ending of the novel. I think that Griet could finally decide something for herself and her life. She understands what is good for her and what kind of life she should live. She knows what is she exactly. And for the earring, she knows what she wants, the earring is just a respect she should receive from Vermeer, and also means that she has no relartionship with him and his family ever.
ReplyDeleteBy Sonia 96540338
I prefer the ending of the novel. I think that Griet could finally decide something for herself and her life. She understands what is good for her and what kind of life she should live. She knows what is she exactly. And for the earring, she knows what she wants, the earring is just a respect she should receive from Vermeer, and also means that she has no relartionship with him and his family ever.
ReplyDeleteBy 96540338 Sonia
Though I never read the novel, but compare with the movie and the novel's ending which professor provided. I think the movie's ending is better for Griet. To marry Peter the butcher is better than involve in a rich man's family revolution.
ReplyDeletei like the end from movie. Although Griet loves Vermeer, she still can't get him. As a main, she can't get her true love, it's better to leave than stay with Peter who she doesn't love that much. It's not good to persuade ourselves to do what we don't wanna do. But at the end of the movie, Griet looks up the sky, just like the beginging of the movie; she doesn't know how to do and where to go. That's really sad!! Paula 96540334
ReplyDeleteI support Griet's decision to marry Peter, the butcher. After she leaves the Vermeer's home, she can do what she wants. But what can she do for a living? To be a maid again? With no money, where can she go? To be a begger? To marry to peter, at least, she doesn't worry that she will no place to live, and no food to eat. A promise of happy life and a bright future, why not?
ReplyDeleteI prefer the ending of the movie. No definite answer to the Griet’s future life gives audiences more imagination. It’s not necessary for audience to accept the maid should be bond with man at any time. She could be an independent woman and decide her life, or the other that she could follow the marriage steps so to be together with butcher. The judgments left to audiences. By doing so, the maid is not a character who dominated by the man, the society; however, she is a woman who could start to chose her own life. It gives a different way to think the women’s thought and value.
ReplyDelete96540343 Carol Lin
i like the ending of the movie. i think to be appreciated and recognized of one's effort is very important. it calls one's confidence and defines one's ability. also, i like the movie's ending for it sending a message of returning home and being herself again.
ReplyDeleteIt would be better for Griet to marry a butcher, because she is a woman living traditional times. People in her time think that women should get married when they reach the appropriate age. Moreover, women could not have great achievements due to the strict society. It would be hard for Griet to live on her own. I want to see Vermeer divorce his wife and be with Griet, but it is not one of the options. I prefer Griet to marry Peter. Since they love each other and they are happy when being together, it is good for them to get married. I think Griet’s love for Peter and Vermeer are different. Peter can make her laugh. Vermeer can take her to explore the fascinating world of painting. I think there is no need for Griet to stay single.
ReplyDeleteBy Ivy 96540303
I think marriage is a serious issue that should be taken cautiously, it combines with ethnic, wealth, and generation problem.I liked the ending just the way it is, and everyone should understands what their truly desire is, everyone should understands what they really want, and should follow this intuition without regret.
ReplyDelete96540453 ALEX