“The implied ‘correct’ outcome of the human reaction (a simple exchange of partners), which was predicted much like a chemical reaction, is avoided because the Captain is a catalyst and not a normal reactant … [Goethe’s] presentation of the Captain, the wild card in the mix of reactants, saves for humanity the possibility of freedom.”
1996 film adaption of Goethe's 1809 Elective Affinities: cover showing the basic double elective affinity reaction threading the chapters of the book together (see: history). [4] |
A = Charlotte
B = Eduard
C = Captain
D = Ottilie