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Read the two extracts below and then answer both part a) and part b) - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 6
Read the two extracts below and then answer both part a) and part b). You are advised to spend about 45 minutes on part a) and 30 minutes on part b). For part a), ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the two extracts below and then answer both part a) and part b) - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
a) Compare how threatening someone else with violence is presented in these extracts.
Answer
In both extracts, the theme of threatening violence manifests through the characters' dialogue and the power dynamics among them.
The first extract highlights John Tate's coercive behavior as he attempts to control the conversation. Tate's warning about physical retaliation, 'bite their face,' reflects a sense of intimidation. His use of casual yet aggressive language not only shows his dominance but also sets a tense atmosphere, suggesting an underlying threat that looms over the group. This is accentuated by the silence of the other characters, illustrating their fear and reluctance to challenge Tate's authority.
Moreover, Cathy’s response to the situation blends sarcasm with a darker undertone. She acknowledges the madness yet seems to maintain a facade of bravado, which contrasts sharply with the underlying fear the group feels in Tate's presence. This interplay of emotions effectively demonstrates how language can manipulate situations and evoke feelings of anxiety and tension among the characters.
Additionally, the structure of the dialogue—inclusive of pauses and non-verbal cues—serves to enhance the dramatic effect. The pause after Tate's instruction allows the tension to build, showcasing the characters' hesitation and fear of retaliation. The dramatic features, such as direct address and fragmented sentences, heighten the sense of urgency and danger in the scene.
Ultimately, both extracts showcase how language and behavioral dynamics reinforce the theme of violence, revealing the characters’ psychological struggles and the complexities of their interpersonal relationships.
Step 2
b) Explore another moment in DNA where violence or physical abuse is presented dramatically.
Answer
Another significant moment in DNA occurs during the confrontation between John Tate and Richard later in the play. This scene escalates tension and demonstrates the physical threat that Tate embodies, reinforcing the themes of power and control.
When Tate directly confronts Richard, his language becomes aggressive. Lines like 'I’m gonna hurt you' serve to not only intimidate Richard but also reflect Tate's inner turmoil. This verbal threat is piercing, conveying the potential for actual physical violence. It is crucial to note how Tate's demeanor changes, showcasing the volatility of his character. The stark transition from casual banter to a threat magnifies the dramatic impact of the scene, making the audience acutely aware of the potential for violence that exists within the group dynamic.
Furthermore, the staging of this moment is critical. As the characters surround Richard, it visually creates an oppressive environment, emphasizing Tate's dominating presence. The way characters react—shifting nervously or attempting to defuse the tension—help to portray the psychological impact of violence, making it more than just a physical threat but also an emotional and mental burden.
Thus, this moment in DNA eloquently illustrates how physical abuse can be represented dramatically, manifesting through dialogue, character interactions, and stage dynamics, all of which intensify the theme of violence that permeates the narrative.