Through his interest in history, Matthias Loïc searches his near and distant past for explanations for the present in his life, in Germany and the world. Growing up in a small town in the southern Heath, his life and his paths lead him to Tübingen, Kassel, Portugal and Scotland. The brutal death of his father on the day of his birth, his childhood sweetheart, the influence of a priest - a chance acquaintance - and life in small-town society with its turmoil, pain and joys lead to an unusual proposal of marriage to a charming old lady who has her own story to tell. At the wedding reception, Matthias is surprised by unexpected guests who usher in the finale.