But the remaining disciples find themselves increasingly at odds with one another.

Babette’s role in the small community–especially among the few devout–is that of a peace-bringer. Babette has lost both husband and son and is now seeking refuge from the war on the small island.īabette’s work ethic and great culinary gifts bring happiness and economic stability to the sisters. Years later, during the French Civil War, Papin sends them Babette. But Philippa is pure and views the entire musical endeavor as an act of seduction and sends her potential suitor back to the continent without her. Papin believes Philippa is destined for musical greatness and decides to offer her his musical expertise in operatic training. His solitude in this strange place plunges him into depression until he hears the angelic melody of Philippa’s voice. Next, Achille Papin, a gifted and renowned opera singer, finds himself on the remote coastland in search of rest.

But he soon finds himself lost in the unique, religious environment and chooses to pursue worldly success, which he duly accomplishes. Lorenz Lowenhielm, an intemperate young cadet enters into Martine’s world seduced by the vision of a purer life. When two men enter the scene, they offer tangible changes to the life of the two maids. Their father’s vision kept them from pursuing “worldly concerns.” The two beautiful young women never married. After the death of their father, the two sisters immerse themselves in a life of charity while carrying their father’s work to a decreasing and dying number of followers. The characters–two elderly maiden sisters–Martine and Philippa, continue the work of their deceased father, who was a prophet/pastor figure of a small Christian sect. The 1987 Danish drama is based on a short story by Isak Dinesen. It is virtually impossible to contemplate the movie without considering its vastly religious and sacramental implications. It is a delicious blend of humor and smells sights and music. Robert Capon once wrote that “Grace is the celebration of life, relentlessly hounding all the non-celebrants in the world.” Babette’s Feast is Robert Capon on screen.

Babette's feast dinesen