The Love Story Of Rhett And Scarlett Butler
Rhett and Scarlett Butler are the main characters ‘Gone with the wind’ a novel by Margaret Mitchell, published in 1936 and immortalised in the Hollywood blockbuster of the same name in 1939. With epic scenes like the rescue of Scarlett by Rhett from the burning city of Atlanta, the characters have become synonymous with romance and passion, capturing the imagination of viewers and readers alike.
Scarlett (played by Vivien Leigh in the film) is the daughter of a wealthy southern plantation holder and slave owner and the story opens just before the outbreak of the American Civil War. Although not conventionally beautiful, her feisty and flirtatious nature makes her irresistible to the local boys who compete for her affections. Despite her magnetic attraction, she is unable to win the heart of the only man she truly loves; her neighbour Ashley Hamilton whose sense of honour keeps him loyal to his genteel and ladylike wife, Melanie.
Rhett kissing Scarlett Butler
Rhett Butler (played by Clark Gable) is something of a renegade, a well-educated and wealthy man, who has made his fortune by gambling and other illicit means. He is a regular patron of local brothels and he is not well thought of in southern society which values ‘gentlemanly’ qualities.
The meeting of Scarlett and Rhett is a classic comic scene. Defying the conventions of the time, in which women were expected to be coy and deferential, Scarlett openly expresses her love to the newly engaged Ashley, who kindly but firmly rejects her advances. Unbeknown to her, Rhett is hidden in the room, listening with amused surprise. Upon discovering Rhett’s presence, Scarlett angrily declares “you sir are no gentleman” to which he replies “you madam are no lady!”.
Rhett is fascinated by Scarlett’s spirited nature and sets out to win her love. Throughout the novel, as the south is devastated by and ultimately defeated in the war, their paths continue to cross and they eventually marry and have a daughter. Scarlett, however, is unable to forget her feelings for Ashley and can never completely open her heart to Rhett, who becomes frustrated with her lack of affection.
Rhett Kissing Scarlett Butler
It is only the death of Melanie which makes Scarlett realise that her and Ashley were never meant to be and that Rhett is her true love. Tragically, Rhett’s patience has finally run out, and, despite her desperate begging, he leaves her with another classic line, “frankly my dear I don’t give a damn”.
The story of Rhett and Scarlett shows how love can really be; difficult, complicated and painful. Does Rhett come back? Romantics like to believe so, but it is a question which has caused much speculation and spurned 2 attempted sequels. We all want a happy ending, and maybe in this case it might just be possible.
Posted: February 28th, 2010 under Celebrity Couples, Couples in History.