Femme Fatale:
Is French for “deadly woman.” The femme fatale is a seductive, gorgeous, and feisty character that allures the protagonist and leads him into to dangerous or even deadly situations. This character hides her main purpose by trapping the protagonist through sexual or needed behaviors.
Norma Desmond as the Femme Fatale:
Norma Desmond is the ultimate Femme Fatale as she allures Joe Gillis with her fortune and superficial love. Although she is extremely wealthy her excessive materialism and strive for making a comeback in Hollywood leads her to feeling alone and needy. Ms. Desmond lives in a world of fantasy and emptiness. She self destructs herself anytime she feels Joe Gillis is going to leave her, which leads Joe into feeling obligated to stay with her; he gets wrapped up in her delusional world.
*Deeper Thinking:
What does Norma’s Desmond’s mansion represent?
