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'Jo wants to be closer to her mother but also more independent from her.' How does Delaney present the difficult relationship between Jo and Helen? Write about: - what Jo and Helen say and do - how Delaney presents Jo and Helen's difficult relationship. - AQA - GCSE English Literature - Question 11 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 11
'Jo wants to be closer to her mother but also more independent from her.' How does Delaney present the difficult relationship between Jo and Helen? Write about: - w... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Jo wants to be closer to her mother but also more independent from her.' How does Delaney present the difficult relationship between Jo and Helen? Write about: - what Jo and Helen say and do - how Delaney presents Jo and Helen's difficult relationship. - AQA - GCSE English Literature - Question 11 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
what Jo and Helen say and do
Answer
Jo and Helen's relationship is characterized by tension and conflict throughout the play. Initially, Jo expresses a deep desire for independence, which manifests in her actions and words as she challenges her mother's authority. For instance, Jo often uses sarcasm and defiance when speaking to Helen, indicating her struggle to assert her individuality while still yearning for maternal closeness.
Conversely, Helen often exhibits a controlling demeanor, reflecting her insecurities as a mother. She speaks to Jo in a way that reveals her underlying fear of losing her daughter to adulthood, which adds complexity to their interactions. Their conversations oscillate between playful banter and pointed arguments, showcasing both their love and frustration with one another.
Step 2
how Delaney presents Jo and Helen's difficult relationship
Answer
Delaney adeptly illustrates Jo and Helen's difficult relationship through various literary devices. The use of realistic dialogue conveys their conflicting emotions and the nuances of their bond. For instance, comedic elements, such as slapstick and witty banter, highlight the absurdity of their clashes, providing moments of levity in otherwise tense situations.
Moreover, Delaney's exploration of the mother-daughter dynamic speaks to broader societal issues. For example, she addresses themes of female independence and societal expectations, showing how these factors influence Jo's struggle for self-identity. Through Jo's character arc, Delaney reveals the complexities of seeking autonomy in a suffocating familial relationship, ultimately portraying the universal challenge of navigating the transition from childhood to adulthood.