Adapted from Theodore Fontanes novel of the same name, Effi Briest is asked for her hand in marriage by her mothers former lover, Baron Von Instetten. Effi meets Major Crampas, Instettens womanizing friend and becomes infatuated with him. Continuing our R.W. Fassbinder block, Effi Briests alternate title is Many people who are aware of their own capabilities and needs just acquiesce to the prevailing system in their thoughts and deeds, thereby confirming and reinforcing it.