Have you ever watched the holiday classic, Christmas Vacation? If so, then you must have come across the character Aunt Bethany.
But who is she exactly? Let’s dive into the details.
The Character of Aunt Bethany
Aunt Bethany is a minor but memorable character in the Christmas comedy film, Christmas Vacation. She is a sweet and lovable elderly woman who is hard of hearing and often confused. Despite her quirks, she brings a lot of joy to the Griswold family and their holiday celebrations.
Actress Who Played Aunt Bethany
The role of Aunt Bethany was played by actress Mae Questel. She was born on September 13, 1908, in New York City and had a long career in both film and television. Questel was known for providing the voice of Betty Boop and Olive Oyl in various animated productions.
Aunt Bethany’s Role in the Movie
Aunt Bethany is introduced to the audience when she arrives at the Griswold family home for their Christmas celebration. She brings along her cat wrapped up as a present for Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) and his family.
Throughout the movie, Aunt Bethany provides comedic relief with her forgetfulness and confusion. For example, during dinner, she leads the family in reciting The Pledge of Allegiance instead of saying grace. She also wraps up her cat food as a present for Clark’s boss.
Aunt Bethany’s Famous Quote
One of Aunt Bethany’s most famous lines in the movie comes when she is asked to say grace before dinner. Due to her hearing difficulties, she misunderstands what is being asked of her and instead leads the family in singing The Star-Spangled Banner. Her famous line goes like this:
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
Aunt Bethany’s Legacy
Despite being a minor character in the movie, Aunt Bethany has become a fan favorite over the years. Her quirky personality and memorable lines have made her an iconic part of Christmas Vacation. Her character is often referenced in pop culture and has even inspired merchandise such as t-shirts and ornaments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Aunt Bethany is a beloved character from the classic holiday movie Christmas Vacation. She is played by Mae Questel and brings a lot of laughter and joy to the Griswold family’s holiday celebration. Her forgetfulness and confusion make her a memorable part of the movie, and her famous quote has become an iconic moment in film history.