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Choose a play which portrays conflict within an individual or family or community - Scottish Highers English - Question 3 - 2019
Question 3
Choose a play which portrays conflict within an individual or family or community. By referring to appropriate techniques, explain the nature of this conflict and d... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Choose a play which portrays conflict within an individual or family or community - Scottish Highers English - Question 3 - 2019
Step 1
Choose a play and describe the conflict
Answer
One significant play that portrays conflict within a family is 'Death of a Salesman' by Arthur Miller. The central conflict arises from Willy Loman’s struggle between his aspirations and reality, embodying the tension between personal dreams and societal expectations. Willy’s dissatisfaction with his life creates a rift with his family, particularly with his son Biff, who feels crushed under the weight of his father's unfulfilled ambitions.
The play effectively depicts this conflict through various techniques, including dialogue, symbolism, and the use of flashbacks, which illustrate Willy's internal turmoil and the consequences of his ideals.
Step 2
Explain the techniques used to portray conflict
Answer
Miller employs dialogue to reveal the emotional stakes involved in Willy's aspirations. For example, the conversations between Willy and Biff are fraught with tension, highlighting their misunderstandings and the burdens of expectations. The use of symbolism is prominent with the recurring motif of seeds, representing Willy's desire to leave a legacy and his realization of failure as he struggles to plant them.
Moreover, the flashbacks serve as a narrative device that contrasts Willy’s past hopes with his present disillusionment, allowing the audience to grasp the depth of the family conflict and Willy’s tragic decline.
Step 3
Discuss the contribution of the conflict to your appreciation of the play
Answer
The conflict in 'Death of a Salesman' significantly enhances my appreciation of the play as it encapsulates universal themes of ambition, disappointment, and familial strain. It challenges the notion of the American Dream by portraying the harsh realities faced by individuals who pursue it. The tragic nature of Willy’s character elicits empathy; his dreams, though flawed, resonate with the audience's own struggles, adding a layer of emotional depth.
Overall, the portrayal of conflict through these techniques not only drives the plot but also invites the audience to reflect on their values and society's expectations, making the play a powerful critique of American life.