In the early years after the end of the Second World War. Germany lies in ruins and the young people only want to look ahead, in search of a little private happiness and a better, peaceful future. For the two young war returnees Klaus Schriewer and Peter Stoll, who have secured their economic survival with a small handcart transport business, this first means looking for a reasonably habitable place to live. The two friends have identified a shipwreck, a former fishing trawler, which they call "Noah's Ark" and which they want to refurbish into a habitable home...

A gigantic masked ball is held at the court of the Chinese emperor Hwang Ti. The builder of the wall surrounding the vast land The builder of the enormous wall surrounding the vast country celebrates his victory over his last enemies and does not shy away from inviting dictators, generals, and famous historical figures from all eras. Napoleon Bonaparte is among the guests, as are Pontius Pilate and Christopher Columbus. Among the revelers, however, is an intellectual from the 20th century who knows the history of the last 2000 years perfectly and points out to the powerful their mistakes and their senseless wars. Those present listen to the man, but do not understand the meaning of his words.