Lecture on "Parasite" and the Use of Symbols and Motifs

Introduction by Michael (Lessons from the Screenplay)

• "Parasite": Tense social satire about the Kims (poor family) who become servants of the Parks (rich family).
• Made history in Feb 2020: First non-English language film to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
• Focus: How "Parasite" uses symbols and motifs to express its theme of wealth vs. poverty.

Key Symbols in "Parasite"

Definition of Symbol

• Represents or stands for something else.
• John Truby: Symbols are "highly concentrated meaning".

The Viewing Stone

• Introduced early in the film, represents Ki-Woo's belief in upward mobility.
• Given by Ki-Woo's wealthy friend Min.
  • Demonstrates Ki-Woo's obsession with wealth and his friend Min.
• Symbol of aspiration and hope.
• Recurs at key moments, reflecting Ki-Woo's emotional state and journey.
  • Demonstrates aspiration, then potential success, finally desperation.

Smell

• Introduced as the Kims infiltrate the Parks’ home.
• Represents the inescapable mark of poverty.
• Especially tied to Ki-Tek (father), who becomes increasingly aware of it.
  • Symbolizes the social barrier between the rich and the poor.

Developing Symbols into Motifs

Definition of Motif

• Repeated element with symbolic significance.
• Articles define motif as creating "ripples" in the audience's mind.

Viewing Stone as a Motif

• Each recurrence deepens its significance.
  • Initial hope and aspiration.
  • Bold actions leading to the Parks’ infiltration.
  • Desperation as they cling to hope amidst flooding.
• Externalizes Ki-Woo's feelings about wealth and failure.

Smell as a Motif

• Reinforces the stigma of poverty repeatedly.
• Key scenes remind Ki-Tek of his status and the invisible line between classes.

Theme as Expressed by Motifs

Definition of Theme

• Abstract meaning expressed by concrete motifs.
• Example: Theme of poverty's inescapability through recurring motifs of stone and smell.

Climax and Theme

• Ki-Tek's despair and constant reminder of smell leads to his breaking point.
• Viewing stone becomes a weapon but ultimately symbolizes Ki-Woo's destruction.
• Final eruption of motifs in the climax, emphasizing the theme of poverty's grip.

Conclusion

• "Parasite" effectively uses symbols and motifs to deepen its social satire on wealth disparity.
• Achieves a story that resonates globally.
• Symbols and motifs transcend culture, making the story universally impactful.

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