Lady Hamilton (1921)

Oswald’s portrait of women and history tells, in a very free adaptation, the eventful life and love story of the historically documented Emma Hamilton and Horatio Nelson, admiral of the British fleet. Lady Hamilton is born as Emma Lyon, the daughter of a woodcutter and a dairymaid, into very poor circumstances. London society soon takes notice of her, and the famous painter George Romney immortalizes her beauty on canvas several times. Romney becomes a loyal friend throughout her short yet highly adventurous life, marked by numerous highs and lows. Emma Lyon rises in society by marrying William Hamilton, the English ambassador to the court of the Kingdom of Naples. Lady Hamilton quickly befriends the Queen of Naples and soon gains influence as a result. One day, when Emma Hamilton meets the English sea lord Admiral Nelson, renowned for his courage and audacity, both of them fall for each other. Their paths cross again and again, and each time they have a painful farewell, until one day Nelson has to sail off to another sea battle. He returns from the battle badly wounded and with one eye. Emma is horrified, but these injuries do nothing to diminish her love. However, Emma must realize that she will never have Nelson entirely to herself. Then, it is the year 1805, and he has to go back to sea. It will be his final assignment: in the Battle of Trafalgar, Lord Nelson is badly wounded under heavy enemy fire and dies aboard ship, cared for by his comrades. He does not live to see the triumphant English victory. Emma Hamilton is left alone. His lover quickly falls into poverty and becomes very ill; her own end is sealed, as no one feels responsible for her anymore.