Lawrence of Arabia

"Lawrence of Arabia" (1962) is a historical epic directed by David Lean and based on the life of T.E. Lawrence, a British officer and adventurer whose role in the Arab Revolt during World War I became legendary. Known for its sweeping desert landscapes, complex characters, and exploration of identity and heroism, the film is both a visual masterpiece and an examination of the clash between personal ambition and cultural respect.

Plot Summary

Prologue: Lawrence’s Death

The film opens with T.E. Lawrence’s (played by Peter O’Toole) death in a motorcycle accident in 1935. His funeral is attended by dignitaries and military personnel, but despite his fame, most people seem to know little about who Lawrence truly was. This uncertainty around his character frames the story of Lawrence’s life, unfolding through a flashback to his time in the Middle East during World War I.

Act I: Lawrence’s Mission

In Cairo, Lawrence is a British Army lieutenant, intelligent and headstrong, but restless and dissatisfied with his work. His superiors view him as an oddity, but he’s given a special mission: Colonel Brighton (Anthony Quayle) orders Lawrence to assess the situation with Prince Faisal (Alec Guinness), an Arab leader resisting the Ottoman Turks, and determine whether Faisal could be a useful ally.

On his journey, Lawrence becomes fascinated by the desert and the people he meets, revealing a deep curiosity about Arab culture. He travels with a local guide named Tafas but is soon confronted by Sherif Ali (Omar Sharif), a Bedouin chieftain who kills Tafas for trespassing on his tribal land. Despite the tension, Lawrence and Ali gain respect for each other, beginning a complex and significant partnership.

Act II: Leading the Arab Revolt

Lawrence arrives at Prince Faisal’s camp, where he is struck by Faisal’s wisdom and commitment to the Arab cause. When the British suggest that Faisal hold back and rely on Britain’s support, Lawrence urges Faisal to pursue direct action instead. He proposes an ambitious plan: attack the Turkish stronghold at Aqaba by crossing the Nefud Desert, a route the Turks would never expect because of its harsh conditions.

With Sherif Ali and a group of Bedouin warriors, Lawrence leads a grueling journey across the desert. During the journey, Gasim, one of Lawrence’s men, falls behind. Despite being advised to leave him, Lawrence risks his life to return and save him, winning the respect of his followers. After surviving the desert, Lawrence’s group succeeds in capturing Aqaba from the Turks, a victory that boosts the morale of the Arab forces and brings Lawrence newfound fame.

Act III: Lawrence Becomes "El Aurens"

In Cairo, Lawrence’s success at Aqaba earns him recognition and support from General Allenby (Jack Hawkins), who sees Lawrence’s influence as a valuable tool in undermining the Ottoman Empire. Lawrence returns to the desert and continues rallying Arab tribes to fight the Turks. His charisma, courage, and willingness to understand Arab culture win him the title of “El Aurens,” and he becomes a symbolic figure of unity among the tribes.

Lawrence’s campaigns grow increasingly violent, and he begins to wrestle with his sense of identity and purpose. He adopts traditional Arab attire and seems to transform, unsure whether he is a British officer or an Arab leader. However, as he pushes further into his role, he also becomes haunted by the bloodshed and moral compromises of war.

Act IV: Challenges and Brutal Realities

The differences between Lawrence’s vision and reality become apparent. The tribal leaders are often more loyal to their clans than to a united Arab identity, and the British remain more interested in dividing the region to suit their post-war interests than in granting true independence. As Lawrence continues his campaign, he leads a guerrilla attack on the Turkish railway system and engages in brutal battles, including a massacre in Tafas where he loses control, slaughtering Turkish soldiers in revenge after witnessing their atrocities.

The violence begins to affect Lawrence’s psyche, and he is increasingly plagued by self-doubt and guilt. At one point, he is captured by Turkish soldiers in Deraa, where he is beaten and humiliated by the Turkish Bey. This experience shatters him, and he questions whether he is still capable of leading or if he’s simply a pawn of the British Empire.

Act V: The Battle for Damascus and Disillusionment

Despite his psychological trauma, Lawrence leads the Arabs to Damascus, capturing the city in a chaotic and bloody battle. However, Lawrence’s dream of a united, independent Arab nation falls apart as soon as they gain control. The city descends into disorder as different tribes quarrel over power, unable to maintain the complex infrastructure needed to run the city.

The British, including General Allenby and Mr. Dryden (Claude Rains), an influential politician, quickly step in to take control, affirming Lawrence’s fears that the British never intended to allow Arab independence. Feeling betrayed and recognizing the futility of his ambitions, Lawrence is devastated. Realizing his role in the British manipulation of the Arab Revolt, he leaves Damascus, disillusioned and broken.

Epilogue: Lawrence’s Return to England

The film concludes with Lawrence’s return to Cairo, where his superiors acknowledge his service but dismiss him from further involvement. In the closing scenes, Lawrence is seen traveling back to England, a shell of the man he once was, haunted by his past and questioning his place in the world.

Themes and Symbolism

• Heroism and Hubris: Lawrence’s sense of destiny drives him, yet his ambitions are marred by overconfidence and pride. His desire to bridge two cultures leads to both great achievements and tragic mistakes.

• Identity and Duality: Lawrence’s internal conflict between his British loyalty and his immersion in Arab culture is central to his journey. His dual identity, symbolized by his choice to wear Arab clothing, reflects his struggle to find where he truly belongs.

• Colonialism and Betrayal: The film critiques British imperialism, showing how the promises of independence made to Arab leaders were ultimately disregarded in favor of British interests.

• Isolation and Alienation: Lawrence, despite his charisma, remains an outsider in both British and Arab societies. This sense of alienation is underscored by the vast, empty desert, which symbolizes both freedom and isolation.

Legacy and Impact

Lawrence of Arabia is hailed as one of the greatest films ever made, notable for its stunning cinematography, complex portrayal of T.E. Lawrence, and exploration of moral ambiguity. The film’s breathtaking visuals and timeless story make it an enduring classic, examining the costs of heroism, the intricacies of cultural respect, and the ethical dilemmas of war and imperialism.