A Woman of Experience

A Woman of Experience

Year: 1931

Runtime: 74 mins

Language: English

Director: Harry Joe Brown

RomanceDrama

Set in 1915 Vienna amid the devastation of the Great War, prostitute Elsa volunteers to aid the war effort but is turned away when she applies to be a nurse. Recognizing her resourcefulness, a government official recruits her as a secret intelligence operative, thrusting her into espionage.

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Timeline – A Woman of Experience (1931)

Trace every key event in A Woman of Experience (1931) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Elsa Elsbergen's Rejection from Nursing

Elsa Elsbergen volunteers for nursing work during 1914 Vienna, but her lies about her sordid past are uncovered, leading to her being turned down. Despite this setback, her patriotism catches the attention of Captain Muller, who sees her as suitable for intelligence work. Her disappointment stems from her desire to serve despite her past revelations.

1914 Vienna
2

Elsa Begins Intelligence Work

Captain Muller, convinced of Elsa's patriotism, recruits her for the Austrian Department of Intelligence. Major Schmidt, her superior, then assigns her to gain friendly access to Captain Otto von Lichstein, suspected of spying for the enemy. Elsa accepts this undercover assignment despite her initial reluctance.

3

Elsa Meets Von Lichstein

Elsa successfully catches the eye of Captain Otto von Lichstein at a social party. She agrees to meet him again the following night, beginning a covert relationship that is part espionage and personal intrigue. The encounter sets the stage for her complex involvement with enemy agents.

4

Near-Accident and Meeting Count Karl Runyi

On her way home, Elsa is nearly run down by a horse-drawn cab. Inside, Count Karl Runyi, a Royal Navy officer, apologizes and insists on escorting her home. Their interaction quickly develops into a mutual attraction, and they start seeing each other nightly, defying Elsa's professional duties.

5

Elsa Chooses Karl Over Espionage

Despite her supervisor Schmidt reprimanding her for her relationship with Karl, Elsa refuses to give him up. She prioritizes her feelings for Karl over her espionage responsibilities, engaging in a secret romance that complicates her loyalties.

6

Elsa Persuades Karl to Stay

Karl, initially hesitant about risking his safety, is persuaded by Elsa to seize a pivotal opportunity to join a dangerous submarine operation. She lies in her letter to him, claiming she has found someone else, making him reconsider his priorities and encouraging him to pursue glory.

7

Elsa Starts Relationship with Von Lichstein

Elsa begins a romantic relationship with Captain von Lichstein, whom she entertains and spies on. During one encounter, she overhears von Lichstein planning a major espionage operation involving secret submarine routes, indicating her deepening involvement in espionage activities.

8

Confrontation and Shooting Incident

Elsa secretly calls Schmidt to warn him about von Lichstein, but a struggle ensues. In the chaos, von Lichstein splashes his drink and a gun goes off, seriously wounding Elsa. The arrival of Schmidt's team prompts von Lichstein to commit suicide out of despair and guilt.

9

Karl Returns a Hero

Karl successfully completes his mission and returns to Vienna as a celebrated hero. His courageous actions and the bravery he demonstrated during the dangerous submarine operation earn him admiration from the public and the military.

10

Karl Proposes to Elsa

Despite her injury and secrets, Elsa confesses that she has no other romantic interests, and Karl proposes marriage. Their engagement signifies a turning point, blending personal love with the ongoing wartime narrative.

11

The Countess Threatens to Reveal Elsa's Past

Karl's mother, Countess Runyi, learns about Elsa's sordid past and threatens to tell Karl, risking their engagement. Elsa's loyalty is tested as she refuses to break their relationship, asserting her love despite the potential consequences.

12

Elsa's Heroism Revealed

Katie, Elsa's loyal maid, discloses Elsa's heroism and sacrifices during her espionage activities to the Countess, which sways her opinion. Although moved, the Countess remains cautious and wary of Elsa's past and uncertain future.

13

Elsa's Illness and Wedding

Elsa reveals that she has only six months to live due to her war injury. Despite this devastating news, she chooses to marry Karl. Their wedding signifies hope and love amidst the turmoil and tragedy of wartime.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:14

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