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Den tyska expressionismens inverkan på Alfred Hitchcock

En studie av visuellt och narrativt arv under Weimarrepubliken och dess inverkan på Alfred Hitchcock

På svenska

Author

  • Noel Englander

Summary, in English

This paper explores the influence of German Expressionism on Alfred Hitchcock's filmmaking, focusing on three key works: The Man Who Knew Too Much (1934), Shadow of a Doubt (1943), and Psycho (1960). German Expressionism, characterized by its distorted sets, dramatic use of light and shadow, and emphasis on psychological depth, is a foundational cinematic movement that profoundly impacted Hitchcock’s style. The study examines how Hitchcock adapted expressionist aesthetics and themes to enhance the psychological complexity and narrative suspense in his films, solidifying his status as a pivotal auteur in cinematic history. The analysis highlights how Hitchcock's early exposure to German Expressionism influenced his approach to mise-en-scène, lighting, and the portrayal of moral and psychological ambiguity. Each film analyzed demonstrates a unique way in which Hitchcock integrated expressionist techniques, from the use of chiaroscuro lighting in Shadow of a Doubt to the fragmented narrative and visual motifs in Psycho. The paper also considers the broader legacy of German Expressionism, suggesting potential comparative studies with directors such as Tim Burton and Orson Welles, whose works reflect similar stylistic and thematic resonances. Ultimately, this research underscores the enduring relevance of German Expressionism as a cornerstone of film history and its profound influence on the evolution of visual storytelling.

Department/s

Publishing year

2025

Language

Swedish

Document type

Student publication for Bachelor's degree

Topic

  • Languages and Literatures

Keywords

  • Film
  • Tysk Expressionism
  • Auteur
  • Alfred Hitchcock

Supervisor

  • Lars Gustaf Andersson (Professor)