As a law student, Michael sees Hanna, his former lover, on trial for war crimes and must face the secret that shaped their teenage relationship.
- Scenes 1–6
In 1995, Michael prepares breakfast for Brigitte, then is alone in his apartment and looks out the window.
- Scenes 7–24
The sick schoolboy Michael accepts Hanna’s help and returns to her.
- Scenes 25–35
Michael enters an intimate relationship with Hanna, organized around his reading to her.
- Scenes 36–96
Michael alternates between time with Hanna and school; their reading ritual and cycling trip continue while he also spends time with friends.
- Scenes 97–104
At the trial, Michael finds Hanna among the defendants and hears her admit involvement in selections.
- Scenes 106–137
Testimony reveals Hanna’s role; Michael’s discovery of her illiteracy cannot prevent her conviction.
- Scene 155
Michael records himself reading the Odyssey aloud onto tape.
- Just before
- Scene 181
Brenner meets Michael in the prison yard and says they expected him earlier.
- Scene 182
Brenner warns Michael that Hanna has changed and become less purposeful in recent years.
- Scene 183
Michael meets aged Hanna in the prison canteen, offers housing and work, and learns she has taught herself to read; she says the dead remain dead.
- Scene 184
This scene
