A husband and wife lay side by side in the long grass of the plentiful fields of their land as sunlight gently brushes over their smiling faces and joyful eyes, oblivious to the rise of Nazism. They silently listen to the sound of their children laughing in harmony with the birds singing, until the thundering sound of the distant church tower disrupts their sweet sound of life. The film A Hidden Life represents the true story of a couple who demonstrate unwavering love, trust, sacrifice, and commitment to each other during World War II, therefore representing a modern example of true intimacy and unity of marriage, mirroring God’s unwavering love for humanity as demonstrated in the bible. World War II and Hitler’s reign had unfathomable impacts on humanity, and the separation of Franz and Franziska Jagerstatter represents true resilience as they demonstrate strong support and commitment during this troubling period of history. In a letter sent from Franziska to Franz it reads, “we frequently go to church, I am praying that peace comes soon and that you are able to remain home with us, it is so terrible that two people are separated who are always happy together, with God’s help we will be able to endure this and not be harmed by it” (Putz 43). In modern society, secular relationships face struggles of divorce and separation due to the lack of God’s presence in the relationship, and the story of Franz and Franziska serves as an incredible example of a beautiful marriage empowered by faith.
Franz and Franziska work side by side as they perform difficult labor together in their fields within the towering mountains surrounding them. They work tirelessly together, completing chores, harvesting crops, and caring for their children; but amongst their great labor and effort, there is sweet laughter and playfulness as they run through their fields together. The opening scenes of A Hidden Life depict the genuine love between a husband and wife as they create a life of joy and happiness together, therefore symbolizing biblical teachings such as the creation story in the Book of Genesis that describes the state of bliss and innocence when two individuals are in love. In the Book of Genesis after God created Eve out of the rib of Adam, Adam says “this is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh, shall be called woman, because she was taken out of man” (Genesis 2:23). Following this creation event, it reads “and they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed” (Genesis 2:25). This language represents the true unity of man and woman, and the natural innocence of love. This idea that a man and woman are created so differently but live in perfect harmony together is comforting to mankind. Franz and Franziska embody this notion as they work complementary to the other as portrayed in early scenes of the film, showing their everyday life on the farm.
The busy life of Franz and Franziska does not impede their time for each other as there is constant playful banter between them as they transform simple everyday chores into family games and fun. The love and affection intertwined in their everyday routine represents the biblical verses stating, “do everything in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14) and “be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:2-3). It is evident through their words and actions that Franz and Franziska are content and at peace together, even in the simplest moments. For example, as they harvest potatoes and mix the soil together with their hands, the camera features their wedding rings on their dirty hands (4:53-6:00). This scene ultimately emphasizes that Franz and Franziska do everything in love. As they walk home together through town, a woman gives Franziska an apple, but before she takes a bite herself, she gives it to Franz to take the first bite (5:25-5:50). Although a minor detail, this simple sacrifice mirrors immense respect and love between Franz and Franziska. Throughout the film, there are several simple and small moments that reflect powerful themes of love and commitment.
Spanning through the beautiful scenery of their land and home, Franziska expresses “it seemed no trouble could reach our valley, we lived above the clouds” (7:33-7:50). This language that Franziska uses has both a literal and figurative meaning. As she describes their physical life elevated in the mountains of Austria among the clouds, she also symbolically describes the state of mind that she and Franz live in, together. The specific words “above the clouds” represents the idea that they live in an angelic state of peace, almost like a dream. Additionally, the words “no trouble could reach our valley” symbolizes the comfort and safety they both feel living together in their home. However, as time progresses, realizations of the outside world begin invading their valley as they start to notice planes flying overhead and the mailman working overtime, frantically delivering mail on his bike. The distant church bell rings and echoes throughout their valley, drowning out the sounds of the birds and their children’s laughter. The time finally comes, and Franz is recruited to serve in the progressing war.
At a very dark military building surrounded by daunting large stone walls, men dressed as soldiers stand outside in the rain and yell orders and intense commands (10:07-10:16). Dressed in uniform, Franz appears identical to the other Nazi soldiers beside him, except on the inside, he has a perspective that sets him aside from the rest. The scenes of Franz’s military training reveal his secret attitude against violence and the war (11:38-12:03), therefore representing Franz’s spiritual commitment to God and his wife as reflected in Josiah B. Trenham’s commentary: Marriage and virginity according to St. John Chrysostom. His opposing attitude at the ENNS Military Base foreshadows Franz’s reluctance to surrender to Hitler propaganda because of the belief in his heart that it is morally wrong. Because he is against war and violence, Franz refuses to stab the dummy with his weapon (11:38-12:03), and he also does not clap at the conclusion of the Hitler film shown to them at the military base (14:20-14:23). These thoughtful choices made by Franz ultimately build his character as a strong believer and follower of Christ who stands firm in a world that is crumbling around him. He even tries persuading a friend to join in his rebellion as he states, “do you even believe what we are fighting for?” (21:24-21:30), while explaining to them that the army is “killing innocent people, preying on the weak” (26:56). After receiving backlash from friends, he continues his challenging journey on his own. However, it is important to note that although he is on his own, Franz is not alone. At home, Franziska writes him supportive letters expressing encouraging words for him. She tells him that their home feels empty without him (12:20-13:20) and that she hopes to see him soon. Franziska signs the letter “your loving wife, Frani”, ultimately representing her love and support for her husband during this difficult time of separation (13:50-14:06). The repetitive letters between Franz and Franziska symbolize their commitment to one another which parallels principles of marriage in Josiah B. Trenham’s commentary: Marriage and virginity according to St. John Chrysostom. Specifically, Trenham comments that “the spiritual potential of a marriage truly founded on the teachings of Jesus Christ: teachings that applied equally to a monk and a married person” (Trenham 153). Through these words, Trenham emphasizes that marriage is a significant religious responsibility and commitment, and that marriage should ultimately reflect one’s relationship with God.
The bible teaches that through tough times, humans must maintain deep trust in God. The biblical Book of Psalms expresses “what time I am afraid, I will trust in thee, in God I will praise His word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do onto me” (Psalm 56:3-4). The book Franz Jagerstatter: Letters and Writings from Prison by Erna Putz explains that Franz was heavily influenced by Franziska’s spirituality early on in their marriage (Putz xv). At the time, there was a “social norm” for women to be more spiritual and devoted to religion because men were supposed to prioritize their farm and work (Putz xv). However, leading by example, Franziska encourages Franz to strengthen his faith, and eventually, he transitions to prioritizing faith and the church over his farm (Putz xv). Franz relies on his faith as he navigates his way through military training. He remains steadfast in his love and trust in God and offers repetitive prayers and loyalty to God. His actions and dependence on God represents the biblical teaching “the Lord is far from the wicked, but he heareth the prayer of the righteous” (Proverbs 15:29) and “the Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower” (Psalms 18:2). Committed to his faith, virtue, and trust in God, Franz makes an extremely controversial and dangerous decision to refuse to serve Hitler, which ultimately introduces a new set of challenges for Franz and Franziska.
As Franz walks down the dirt road through his town, he receives daggering looks and snares from his neighbors. Every individual he encounters turns their back to Franz instead of inviting him into their homes in celebration of his return. When Franz is sent home, he receives severe threats from his mayor and community because of his refusal to support Hitler, therefore highlighting the strength of Franz and Franziska’s relationship, anchored in faith as portrayed in Franz Jagerstatter: Letters and Writings from Prison by Erna Putz. Franz’s priest attempts to persuade Franz through fear, saying “think about the consequences, and your family” (27:34) and “your sacrifice will benefit no one” (27:56). By refusing to submit to the war effort, Franz places a dangerous target on not only himself, but his entire family.
Despite the threats and rejection of their community, Franz remains steadfast in his commitment to moral and spiritual integrity, and Franziska remains committed to Franz. For example, through the hardships and struggle as a family, Franziska offers comfort saying “if we are faithful to Him, He will be faithful to us, I believe it. We have Him, that’s enough” (58:37-59:00). The supportive words of Franziska demonstrate that God is at the center of their marriage and relationship, and through God, they find strength. The book Franz Jagerstatter: Letters and Writings from Prison highlights an interview of Franziska expressing, “we helped one another go forward in faith” (Putz xv). Therefore, in their marriage, Franz and Franziska relied on each other for support and challenged each other to strengthen their faith. As represented in the biblical Book of Psalms, “commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him, and he shall bring it to pass” (Psalm 37:5). These words provide comfort that God will provide safety and protection to “those who walk uprightly and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in their heart” (Psalms 15:2). It is evident that the foundation of Franz and Franziska’s relationship is rooted in faith and their relationship with God, which ultimately fuels their powerful love.
At a wooden table at the center of the room, Franz sits quietly while focusing on the grain pattern in the natural wood. The Bishop stands above his right shoulder and places a firm, but tender hand on Franz’s shoulder. The conversation between Franz and the Bishop ultimately reveals Franz’s motives and logic behind his decisions, therefore further demonstrating the unconditional love Franz has for his wife and family, and his spiritual and moral responsibility as a follower of God as reflected in the biblical Book of Proverbs. Franz expresses to the Bishop “I want to save my family, and not through lies” (34:37-35:00) and he explains that he takes his duty as a religious man seriously. This language mirrors teachings in scripture as the Book of Proverbs states “the desire of a man is his kindness, and a poor man is better than a liar” (Proverbs 19:22). This verse ultimately supports that a man who maintains righteousness, moral honesty, and integrity is rich in the spirit and strength of God.
Additionally, in the biblical Book of Timothy, it reads “I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Franz’s actions and words embody characteristics of several descriptions of a holy man in scripture. The Bishop responds to Franz with the wise words, “we must be strong and stand firm, no matter how hard the hammer strikes” (33:17-33:25). These words directly foreshadow the moments that follow when Franz is faced with one final opportunity to surrender to Hitler or be sentenced to death. When Franziska receives notice of the sentence, she tells a friend that “Franz has been sentenced to death” (2:21-2:10) and immediately gets on a train to see her husband.
Franz’s lawyer brings Franz and Franziska into a room in which they sit hand in hand across a table. The lawyer and priest frantically argue and pressure Franz to surrender to Hitler to save his life, calling him “senseless” and irrational (2:26-3:00). Amidst the chaos, Franz and Franziska lock eyes and focus on each other. Despite the yelling and the frustration surrounding them, they remain steady and calm. Franziska’s soft voice whispers “Franz, my love. I love you, whatever you do, whatever comes. I’m with you, always” (2:27:00-2:27:40). Instead of begging him to live, Franziska offers unconditional love and support for her husband. As tears fall down their faces, they embrace each other and share one last kiss as the soldiers have to physically pull them apart. This monumental moment captures several important aspects of Franz and Franziska’s relationship: faith, love, commitment, trust, loyalty, and sacrifice. This heartbreaking moment is a true testament to their commitment to each other, and they remain strong.
The powerful story of Franz and Franziska Jagerstatter is unique because it represents strong themes of both marital commitment and religious commitment, therefore signifying that God should be the center of a marriage. Throughout their journey together, several challenging experiences and obstacles test their marriage, but they remain steadfast in their faith and love for each other, which ultimately gives them the strength to overcome the hardships. Both individuals offer significant sacrifices out of love, reflecting the ultimate sacrifice God made by sending His only son to earth to save humanity. The biblical Book of John states “for God so loved the world, that he sent his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). By giving his own life at the end of the film, Franz makes the ultimate sacrifice out of his love for God and his family. The biblical Book of Romans mirrors this type of sacrifice stating, “but God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). In a time of extreme conflict, war, death, threats, and sin, Franz Jagerstatter serves as a powerful and inspiring example for humanity and the book Franz Jagerstatter: Letters and Writings from Prison recognizes Franz not only as a martyr, but a prophet (Putz xxxiii). Franz’s journey and sacrifice left lasting impacts on humanity, especially the Catholic church (Putz xxvi). His spiritual passion and strength would not be possible without the love, support, and influence of his dear wife, Franziska. In a world where divorce and separation are so common, it is critical for humans to recognize that marriage is truly an extraordinary gift, and that love gives life purpose.
Work Cited
A Hidden Life. Directed by Terrence Malick, performances by August Diehl, Valerie Pachner, and Maria Simon. Searchlight Pictures, Pandora Film, SF Studios, 2019
The Bible: Authorized King James Version with Apocrypha. Oxford University Press Inc. 1997
Putz, Erna. Franz Jagerstatter Letters and Writings from Prison. Orbis Books, 2009
Trenham, Josiah. Marriage and virginity according to St. John Chrysostom. Durham theses, Durham University, 2003. Available at Durham E-Theses Online: https://etheses. dur.ac.ul/1259/
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