Jezebel (1938) Ending Explained

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By Poppy Cineman
July 04, 2025

tl;dr: The 1938 film Jezebel, starring Bette Davis, concludes with Julie Marsden (Davis) redeeming herself by accompanying Preston Dillard (Henry Fonda), her former fiancé now suffering from yellow fever, to a quarantine island. Her self-sacrifice underscores her transformation from a selfish, manipulative woman to one capable of love and humility. The ambiguous ending leaves Julie's fate uncertain but suggests her actions mark a moral awakening. The film explores themes of societal expectations, personal growth, and redemption in the antebellum South.

Detailed Explanation of the Ending:
The climax of Jezebel occurs when Julie, realizing the consequences of her earlier actions-particularly her reckless decision to wear a red dress to a society ball, defying Southern customs and humiliating Preston-attempts to atone for her behavior. After Preston contracts yellow fever, Julie learns that his new wife, Amy, is too afraid to accompany him to the quarantine island. Seizing this opportunity for redemption, Julie volunteers to take Amy's place, demonstrating her willingness to face danger and societal scorn to prove her love and remorse. The final scene shows Julie and Preston riding away in a carriage, with Julie defiantly declaring, "I'm not afraid!" as the screen fades to black. This ambiguous ending leaves their ultimate fate open to interpretation but emphasizes Julie's transformation from a spoiled, manipulative woman to one capable of selflessness.

Themes and Symbolism:
The ending encapsulates the film's central themes of redemption and societal constraints. Julie's journey mirrors the biblical Jezebel, a figure associated with pride and destruction, but her final act subverts this comparison by showcasing her capacity for change. The red dress, a symbol of her earlier defiance and rebellion, is replaced by her choice to embrace a selfless act, symbolizing her moral growth. The quarantine island serves as a metaphor for isolation and purification, suggesting Julie's willingness to endure hardship to cleanse herself of past sins. The film critiques the rigid gender roles and expectations of the antebellum South, as Julie's defiance ultimately leads to her liberation from societal norms.

Unresolved Questions and Possible Answers:
1. Does Preston forgive Julie?
- The film implies a tacit reconciliation, as Preston allows Julie to accompany him despite their fraught history.
- Alternatively, his silence could suggest resignation rather than forgiveness.

  1. Do Julie and Preston survive the quarantine?

    • The optimistic interpretation is that Julie's bravery leads to a renewed bond, and they survive.
    • A darker reading suggests they succumb to the fever, with Julie's sacrifice serving as her final redemption.
  2. How does society view Julie's actions?

    • Her peers may see her as a fallen woman who finally embraced duty.
    • Others might view her as a tragic figure who defied conventions to the end.

Personal Opinion:
Jezebel is a masterclass in character-driven drama, with Bette Davis delivering a powerhouse performance that elevates the material. The ending is poignant and fitting, as Julie's arc from petulant antagonist to redeemed heroine feels earned. The ambiguity of the finale adds depth, allowing viewers to ponder whether her sacrifice leads to salvation or tragedy. While the film's portrayal of the Old South is romanticized, Julie's story remains a compelling exploration of personal growth. The ending's emotional weight lingers, leaving a lasting impression of a woman who defied expectations to reclaim her humanity.

Legacy and Impact:
Jezebel remains a landmark film for its bold portrayal of a complex female protagonist. Davis's Oscar-winning performance cemented her status as a Hollywood icon, and the film's exploration of gender and redemption resonated with audiences then and now. The ending's ambiguity has sparked decades of debate, ensuring the film's enduring relevance. Whether viewed as a feminist parable or a tragic romance, Jezebel challenges viewers to confront the consequences of pride and the redemptive power of love. Its finale is a testament to the idea that even the most flawed individuals can find grace through self-sacrifice.