Jeremiah Johnson, portrayed masterfully by Robert Redford, does not die in the 1972 film Jeremiah Johnson. The film concludes with Johnson remaining a legendary figure, forever roaming the mountains, his fate ambiguous yet undeniably alive.
The Ambiguous Ending: A Conscious Choice
The lack of a definitive death scene for Jeremiah Johnson is perhaps the most enduring aspect of the film. It’s a deliberate artistic choice that elevates the movie from a simple biography to a meditation on the nature of legend, isolation, and the unforgiving wilderness. Rather than providing a concrete conclusion, the filmmakers opted for a more evocative, open-ended finale. Johnson is last seen meeting with “Bear Claw” Chris Lapp, an old mountain man. They exchange a look that suggests a peaceful understanding, perhaps even acceptance, of Johnson’s isolated existence. This meeting emphasizes his enduring survival and adaptability, leaving his ultimate fate open to interpretation. The film hints at the possibility of him becoming a mythical figure, a silent guardian of the mountains, forever beyond the reach of civilization.
This ambiguity isn’t simply a stylistic flourish. It reflects the uncertainty surrounding the historical figure Jeremiah Liver-Eating Johnson (also known as John Johnston). While the movie is a fictionalized account, it draws inspiration from real-life events and the legendary stories that accumulated around Johnston. The filmmakers likely wanted to retain a sense of that mystery and allow the audience to contemplate Johnson’s possible futures. Did he eventually succumb to old age and the harsh elements? Was he killed in a confrontation with hostile tribes? Or did he simply fade into the mountains, his name and exploits becoming whispers in the wind? The film provides no definitive answer, leaving the audience to ponder these questions.
Understanding the Context: The Mountain Man Era
To truly appreciate the ending of Jeremiah Johnson, it’s important to understand the historical context of the mountain man era. These rugged individuals were pioneers who ventured into the uncharted territories of the American West, seeking fur, adventure, and a life outside the constraints of civilization. Their existence was one of constant hardship and danger, marked by encounters with hostile tribes, harsh weather conditions, and the ever-present threat of starvation.
The film vividly portrays these challenges, showcasing Johnson’s transformation from a greenhorn tenderfoot to a seasoned survivor. He learns to hunt, trap, and fight, adapting to the brutal realities of the wilderness. He forms bonds with Native Americans, both friendly and hostile, and experiences the joys and sorrows of building a family. This journey shapes him into a figure who is both admired and feared, a legend whispered among those who dare to venture into his domain.
Therefore, the ambiguous ending is fitting. The life of a mountain man was inherently unpredictable, and their stories often blended fact and fiction, becoming the stuff of folklore. By refusing to provide a definitive conclusion, the film honors that tradition and allows the audience to participate in the creation of Jeremiah Johnson’s enduring legend.
Interpreting the Final Scene: An Invitation to Reflection
The final scene with “Bear Claw” is crucial for interpreting the film’s ending. Bear Claw is a mentor figure to Johnson, someone who understands the ways of the mountains and the sacrifices required to live a life apart from society. Their silent exchange conveys a deep understanding and acceptance of Johnson’s chosen path.
The scene is shot with a sense of tranquility and peace, suggesting that Johnson has found a measure of contentment in his solitude. He is no longer the naive young man who sought refuge in the mountains. He is now a seasoned veteran, a master of his environment, and a legend in his own right.
The lack of dialogue in this scene is also significant. It emphasizes the unspoken connection between Johnson and Bear Claw, a bond forged through shared experiences and a deep respect for the wilderness. It also suggests that words are inadequate to capture the essence of Johnson’s transformation. His story is best told through his actions, his resilience, and his enduring presence in the mountains.
FAQs: Deeper Insights into Jeremiah Johnson
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the complexities of the film and the legend of Jeremiah Johnson:
H3: Was Jeremiah Johnson based on a real person?
Yes, the film is loosely based on the life of John Johnston, also known as Jeremiah Liver-Eating Johnson. He was a mountain man, trapper, and scout in the American West during the mid-19th century. While the film takes significant liberties with his story, it captures the essence of his rugged individualism and his legendary status.
H3: Why is he called “Liver-Eating” Johnson?
The nickname “Liver-Eating” Johnson stems from alleged acts of revenge against Crow warriors who killed his Flathead Indian wife. According to legend, he would kill Crow warriors and eat their livers in retaliation. While the veracity of these stories is debated, they contributed to his fearsome reputation.
H3: Did Jeremiah Johnson really scalp people?
The film doesn’t explicitly show Johnson scalping people, but it hints at the violence inherent in his lifestyle. Historical accounts of John Johnston suggest he may have engaged in scalping, particularly as a form of revenge. However, it’s important to remember that these are controversial and often sensationalized accounts.
H3: What is the significance of the bear in the movie?
The bear represents the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the wilderness. Johnson’s encounter with the grizzly bear is a pivotal moment in his transformation, forcing him to confront his own mortality and learn to survive in a harsh environment.
H3: What is the meaning of the line “You’ve learned to hunt now, pilgrim”?
This line, spoken by Bear Claw, signifies Johnson’s transformation from a novice to a skilled survivalist. It marks a turning point in his journey, indicating that he has mastered the skills necessary to thrive in the mountains.
H3: Why did Jeremiah Johnson go to the mountains in the first place?
Johnson initially sought refuge in the mountains to escape the monotony of civilization and find a sense of freedom and adventure. He was disillusioned with the constraints of society and drawn to the untamed beauty of the wilderness.
H3: What happened to Jeremiah Johnson’s family in the movie?
Johnson’s family, consisting of his adopted son and his Native American wife, is tragically killed by Crow warriors who seek revenge for his previous actions. This event profoundly impacts Johnson and fuels his subsequent quest for vengeance.
H3: Is the movie historically accurate?
While the film draws inspiration from historical events and figures, it is not a strictly accurate portrayal of John Johnston’s life. It takes liberties with the timeline, character relationships, and specific events.
H3: What is the main theme of the movie?
The main themes of the movie include man’s relationship with nature, the challenges of survival, the consequences of violence, and the search for meaning and purpose. It explores the complexities of the human condition in the context of the unforgiving wilderness.
H3: What makes Robert Redford’s performance so memorable?
Robert Redford’s performance is memorable because he captures the essence of Jeremiah Johnson’s transformation with subtlety and nuance. He portrays Johnson’s initial naiveté, his gradual adaptation to the wilderness, and his eventual descent into a hardened and legendary figure.
H3: What is the significance of the silent scenes in the movie?
The silent scenes emphasize Johnson’s isolation and his connection to the natural world. They allow the audience to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the mountains and to contemplate Johnson’s inner thoughts and feelings.
H3: Why is Jeremiah Johnson considered a classic film?
Jeremiah Johnson is considered a classic film because of its beautiful cinematography, its compelling story, its memorable performances, and its thought-provoking themes. It is a timeless tale of survival, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It invites audiences to reflect on the allure and the price of a life lived outside the boundaries of society.