Babette

Babette is a fictional character who is the protagonist of the 1987 French film *Babette's Feast*. The film is based on the 1888 novella of the same name by Danish author Karen Blixen. Babette is a Parisian refugee who finds herself in a small, austere Danish village in the late 19th century. She becomes the housekeeper for two elderly sisters, who lead a pious and ascetic life. Babette has a mysterious past, hinting at a life of artistic and culinary pursuits in Paris.

After many years of faithful service and living a simple existence, Babette wins a lottery. She uses her winnings to prepare a lavish and extravagant feast for the villagers, a meal that is both a culinary masterpiece and a deeply spiritual experience. The feast breaks down the villagers' rigid piety and brings them together in a shared moment of joy and indulgence. Babette's act of generosity and artistry transforms the lives of those in the village, offering them a glimpse of a world beyond their strict doctrines. The film is celebrated for its themes of art, sacrifice, grace, and the power of shared experience.