The 2022 French film, situated in Saint-Paul, narrates the compelling tale of four women—Marguerite, Suzanne Faure, Agnes, and Caroline Dewitt—who made significant contributions to France’s efforts against the Germans during the First World War in 1914. Each woman assumed a distinct role, showcasing their impact during the wartime period.
Agnes, a nun, transformed her church into a makeshift hospital for wounded French soldiers, collaborating with fellow nuns to provide essential medical care. Noteworthy in Agnes’ narrative is her focus on the mental well-being of the soldiers. Eventually, the hospital’s overseeing doctor granted Agnes permission to address the mental health concerns of the soldiers.
Suzanne Faure, pursued by a French intelligence agent due to accusations related to an illegal abortion, sought refuge in Saint-Paul. While on the run, Suzanne actively treated wounded soldiers at the makeshift hospital, initially manned by a lone surgeon. With Agnes’s intervention, Suzanne expanded her role to assist the doctor, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the hospital’s treatment and care processes.
Caroline Dewitt, the wife of a trucker compelled to take over her husband’s business during his wartime deployment, encountered challenges finding a buyer for her truck. Resourceful and resilient, Caroline ingeniously converted her truck into an emergency ambulance to facilitate the evacuation of injured soldiers.
Marguerite, a prostitute searching for her son, discovered his frontline deployment in the war. In a compassionate gesture, Marguerite assisted in evacuating her son’s friend, injured by a German soldier. Facing a syphilis outbreak in her brothel, Marguerite approached Dewitt, proposing that the prostitutes serve as drivers for the ambulance. This collaborative plan received approval from the general in Saint Paul.
Upon the success of the French offensive, the crucial role played by these emergency ambulances became evident, leading to the prompt medical attention and survival of numerous French soldiers. In recognition of their efforts, the President of France honoured the four women.
The film illustrates the strategic role that women can play in war conditions, highlighting their capacity for innovative ideas that save human lives. While the movie does not explicitly delve into the role of women in peacebuilding and conflict reconciliation, it underscores the invaluable contributions women can make to preserving life during times of war.
Source of image: https://www.tvinsider.com/show/women-at-war/