Symbolism in the Ancient Marinier

"The Grizzly Man"

The film "The Grizzly Man" is not about a man living with or studying bears. It is a personal journey that one human being takes to discover and confront him.

Who Timothy Treadwell really is, was and still is a mystery. However, because of this movie we get an idea whether or not we would like him personally. It seems to me as if he himself was not quite sure of who he is. Once we see him overwhelmed with happiness and self-admiration, another, he shows depression and self-loathing. It almost looks as if it could be argued that Treadwell had suffered from the bipolar disorder.

One of the biggest discussions about this documentary is whether Timothy was insane or at the perfect state of mind. What we can compare it to, is the life-long dispute about the Prince Hamlet's behavior. Although, the situations of the two differ from each other, both characters, all throughout the plots are impossible for the readers and viewers to label. There is never going to be the right and definite decision in either of the cases. That is what makes those two pieces so appealing.

Personally, I believe that neither of them was insane. Timothy might have seemed at times as if he had lost it, nevertheless, we can always find some sensible reasons for his actions. He loved the bears, that fact is not open to question, and as he stated throughout the film, he would do anything that it takes in order to protect those life-threatening creatures. Nonetheless, his beloved animals were not the only reason for him to undertake such a journey. His trip to Alaska was more of an escape from the real world. We could clearly see that Treadwell did not feel comfortable among the people, he would rather spend his time out in the open. At times, he even seemed as if he truly felt he was one of those grizzly bears.

Some may say he is crazy. However, the only insanity he could be convicted of is his love toward the nature and the desire to preserve it. I only hope, that at some point of my life I will be able to be as passionate about what I do as Timothy Treadwell was about his vocation.