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'Russell shows in Blood Brothers that money does not always lead to happiness.' How far do you agree with this view? Write about: • characters with and without money in the play • how Russell presents the effects of having or not having money on happiness. - AQA - GCSE English Literature - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 4
'Russell shows in Blood Brothers that money does not always lead to happiness.' How far do you agree with this view? Write about: • characters with and without mo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Russell shows in Blood Brothers that money does not always lead to happiness.' How far do you agree with this view? Write about: • characters with and without money in the play • how Russell presents the effects of having or not having money on happiness. - AQA - GCSE English Literature - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
characters with and without money in the play
Answer
In Blood Brothers, the contrasting lives of the Johnstone and Lyon families illustrate the varying impacts of wealth and poverty.
The Johnstones: They experience deep familial bonds despite their financial struggles. Mickey, who grows up in a chaotic yet loving home, finds joy in simple pleasures, such as friendships and family connections. His character showcases that happiness is often rooted in love rather than material possessions.
The Lyons: Edward, on the other hand, while raised in affluence, faces a sense of alienation from his family. The wealth of the Lyons creates emotional distance, leading to a lack of genuine connections. This highlights that despite financial security, Edward's upbringing lacks the warmth that Mickey experiences, resulting in a superficial happiness linked to status.
Overall, the stark contrast between these two families shows that money alone does not guarantee happiness—rather, it often comes at the cost of emotional fulfillment.
Step 2
how Russell presents the effects of having or not having money on happiness
Answer
Russell utilizes various narrative techniques to portray the profound effects of wealth and poverty on happiness.
Narrator's Commentary: Throughout the play, the Narrator's perspective serves as a guide, emphasizing the irony of the characters' situations. He contrasts the lives of Mickey and Edward, drawing attention to their distinct realities shaped by socioeconomic statuses.
Dialogue and Language: The use of contrasting dialogue effectively highlights the differences in upbringing. Mickey's informal, colloquial speech reflects his grounded life, while Edward’s more formal language underscores his sheltered background, emphasizing their divergent experiences. This linguistic contrast illustrates how money influences behavior and worldview, often leading to misunderstandings and a lack of connection.
Foreshadowing: Russell foreshadows the tragic outcomes stemming from their socio-economic divide, illustrating that wealth does not equate to happiness. The eventual tragedy that befalls both characters suggests that societal pressures and expectations can undermine personal fulfillment, leading to a more significant commentary on the effects of their respective backgrounds.
Ultimately, Russell's presentation emphasizes that genuine happiness arises from relationships and emotional connections rather than material wealth.