Effigy: Poison and the City 2019

Arrival in Bremen to take up her post

In 1828, Cato Böhmer arrives in the German port city of Bremen to assist investigating judge Senator Droste at the criminal court. She enters a male dominated world and pursues the goal of becoming an attorney, despite women not being admitted to universities. The new position marks the beginning of a tense pursuit of justice.

New assignment and partnership with Droste

She begins working alongside the investigating judge Senator Droste at the Bremen criminal court. They set out to uncover the truth behind a troubling case and navigate the politics of the era. Her ambition to practice as an attorney underscores the barriers she faces.

Investigation into a poison attack

They investigate an alleged poison attack reported by master miller Steitz. The case centers on arsenic poisoning and hints at a broader conspiracy in Bremen. The investigation establishes the tone of caution and danger around the crime.

Encounter with Gesche Gottfried

During the investigation they encounter Gesche Gottfried, a widow regarded by many as philanthropic and sophisticated. She becomes a focal figure as the investigations unfold. Gottfried's demeanor and secrets draw the investigators deeper into the case.

Gottfried becomes a prime suspect

Gottfried turns out to be a prime suspect in a series of killings. The victims include her parents, her three husbands, her children and her twin brother, as well as friends and neighbors. The scale of the alleged crimes shocks the investigators and raises the stakes.

Bourgeois pressure on Droste

Droste comes under increasing pressure from Bremen's bourgeoisie, especially Captain Ehlers who demands the senator's support for his steam shipping company. The case thus becomes entangled with commercial ambitions and political favors. The pressure threatens to derail the pursuit of evidence.

Captain Ehlers pushes for shipping interests

Captain Ehlers presses for political backing for steam shipping, creating a conflict between his business interests and the legal investigation. This tug of war intensifies the political climate around the case. The investigators must navigate both legal proof and political intrigue.

Railroad modernization pressure from the mayor

Meanwhile, Mayor Johann Smidt believes railroads will reshape Bremens future, aligning the investigation with the citys modernization. The sense of progress and change adds another layer to the case. The investigators witness the clash of tradition and technology shaping Bremen politics.

Cato resists Captain Ehlers' intrigue

Cato Böhmer skillfully resists a political intrigue plotted by Captain Ehlers to undermine her boss, Senator Droste. She stays loyal to the investigation and refuses to be drawn into factions. Her steadfastness protects the integrity of their work.

Forensic proof remains elusive

Despite persistent efforts, forensic proof of arsenic poisoning remains elusive, complicating the case. The investigators must rely on circumstantial evidence and emerging testimony. The lack of solid proof raises the pressure to obtain a confession.

Desperate push for a confession

With no solid forensic proof, the pair desperately needs a confession from Gesche Gottfried to close the case. They press for admissions during interviews and watch for signs of guilt. The outcome remains uncertain as the clock runs.