What happened to the woman in the flowers of war?

What Happened to the Woman in The Flowers of War?

Introduction

The Flowers of War is a 2011 Chinese drama film directed by Zhang Yimou, set during the Nanking Massacre in 1937. The film revolves around a group of courtesans who take shelter in a Catholic cathedral after the Japanese invasion of Nanking. One of the central characters, Wang Jing-weis (played by Yúan Li), becomes the protagonist of the story. The film explores the themes of human suffering, morality, and redemption through the experiences of Wang and the other women. As the story unfolds, audiences are left wondering what becomes of Wang, the brave and selfless woman. This article will delve into the story of Wang and explore what happens to her in the film.

The Backstory of Wang Jing-weis

Wang Jing-weis is a young Chinese woman who is forced into prostitution due to poverty. She becomes one of the many women working at a brothel in Nanking, catering to the wealthy and influential clients. As the Japanese army approaches the city, Wang and the other women are forced to flee and seek shelter at the nearby Catholic cathedral. Wang’s courage and compassion shine through as she takes charge and helps the other women adapt to their new surroundings, while also protecting them from the horrors outside.

The Tragic Events that Unfold

As the Japanese soldiers take over the city, Wang and the other women at the cathedral are faced with unimaginable horrors. Mass rape, torture, and murder become commonplace, and the women are forced to witness and survive the atrocities. Wang becomes the central figure in the group, providing emotional support and comfort to the other women. Her selfless actions earn her the admiration and respect of the others, who begin to refer to her as _"Jing-weis, the Flower of War".

The Conclusion: What Happens to Wang Jing-weis?

Spoiler Alert

As the film reaches its climax, Wang is mortally wounded during a Japanese raid on the cathedral. As she lies dying, she is tended to by a young nun, Sister Zhou, who finds solace in Wang’s words of encouragement and advice. Wang’s final words to Sister Zhou are a testament to her courage and compassion: _"Survive, don’t kill, don’t hate".

What Happens to Wang

In the final scene of the film, Wang’s funeral is held, attended by the other women from the brothel, Sister Zhou, and several priests from the cathedral. The funeral procession is interspersed with flashbacks of Wang’s life, showcasing her kindness, compassion, and strength. Wang’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and courage of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable suffering.

Impact and Significance

Wang’s story in The Flowers of War has a profound impact on the audience, leaving them with a sense of reverence and admiration for her unwavering bravery. Wang’s selflessness and compassion serve as a powerful testament to the human capacity for kindness and empathy, even in the darkest of times. Her story also raises important questions about the value of human life, morality, and the consequences of war.

Historical Significance

The Nanking Massacre, also known as the Rape of Nanking, was a real event in which thousands of Chinese civilians and prisoners of war were killed, and tens of thousands of women were subjected to sexual violence and brutality. The Flowers of War provides a powerful and poignant account of this tragedy, highlighting the bravery and resilience of those who survived the atrocities. Wang’s story serves as a tribute to the millions of people who suffered and died during this period, and serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from the past.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wang Jing-weis’ story in The Flowers of War is one of courage, compassion, and redemption. Her unwavering bravery and selflessness in the face of unimaginable suffering serve as a powerful testament to the human spirit. As we reflect on her story, we are reminded of the importance of remembering and learning from the past, and the value of human life in the face of tragedy and suffering.

Key Takeaways:

• Wang Jing-weis is a central character in the film The Flowers of War, playing a selfless and compassionate role throughout the story.
• Wang’s backstory shows her to be a courageous and resourceful individual, forced into prostitution due to poverty.
• The film depicts the atrocities committed by the Japanese army during the Nanking Massacre, including mass rape, torture, and murder.
• Wang is mortally wounded during a Japanese raid on the cathedral, and dies in the arms of Sister Zhou, a young nun.
• Wang’s funeral is attended by the other women from the brothel, Sister Zhou, and several priests from the cathedral, and serves as a poignant reminder of her kindness, compassion, and strength.

Timeline of the Film: