In an attempt to escape the trenches, a German soldier named Peter Faber marries Katharina Spinell. The two have never met, but the marriage promises leave for Peter and a pension for Katharina should he die. When they actually meet, the two are surprised by the passion that develops. Back on the front, only the dream of Katharina sustains Peter. In Berlin, Katharina works her way into Nazi high society. When Berlin falls, the newlyweds find their dream of family thrown into tragedy.