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The film "The Graduate" is seemingly divided into two sections, Benjamin's relationship with Mrs. Robinson and his relationship with Elaine.These two relationships, although very different, are inter-related. An integral part of the film is that Benjamin is forced to choose between the two women, representing different morals and values. It seems to be obvious that Benjamin chooses Elaine, but a closer look at the ending has the viewer wondering if he is happy with his decision.
Thefirst section of the film, which concentrates on Ben's relationship with Mrs. Robinson, foreshadows the events to come. Mrs. Robinson, sexually forthright and wise, seduces the innocent Ben, a true cipher incapable of action or decision. Immediately she becomes the predator, always dressed in animal prints and surrounded by jungle like settings. It seems clear, that while Ben and Mrs. Robinson are the focus of the film at this point, we are encouraged to formulate a more traditional and acceptable theme. Despite Mrs. Robinson's dominance, the presence of Elaine Robinson (literally) hangs over these early scenes. Mrs. Robinson takes Ben to her home, shows him Elaine's portrait which hangs on the wall in her bedroom. The use of the portrait, and numerous references to her impending arrival firmly establish Elaine in the plot yet she remains unrevealed through thefirst half of the film. Elaine Robinson's portrait forces us to acknowledge her presence and her relevance to the conflict to be resolved. The fact that Mrs. Robinson seduces Ben in Elaine's room, under the innocent painted gaze of her daughter only reinforces the inevitable clash that will occur.
Elaine continues to haunt Ben, ghost-like for thefirst half of the film, our eventual meeting with her cements the understanding that Elaine is to be the primary love interest. In direct contrast to her mother, there is nothing deceptive about Elaine; sh…