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2. (a) (i) Name one of the comparative texts you have studied and identify a character who is powerful or successful in the world of this text - Leaving Cert English - Question 2 - 2021
Question 2
2. (a) (i) Name one of the comparative texts you have studied and identify a character who is powerful or successful in the world of this text. Use at least one ke... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2. (a) (i) Name one of the comparative texts you have studied and identify a character who is powerful or successful in the world of this text - Leaving Cert English - Question 2 - 2021
Step 1
Name one of the comparative texts you have studied and identify a character who is powerful or successful in the world of this text. Use at least one key moment to demonstrate that your chosen character is either powerful or successful in this social setting.
Answer
One of the comparative texts I have studied is "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. A character who exemplifies power within this narrative is Jay Gatsby. One key moment that underscores Gatsby's influence occurs when he throws extravagant parties that attract the elite of New York society, illustrating his wealth and status. This showcases not only his financial power but also his yearning for acceptance among the upper class, a central theme in the novel.
Step 2
Name another of your comparative texts and identify a character who is powerful or successful in the world of this text. Use at least one key moment to demonstrate that your chosen character is either powerful or successful in this social setting.
Answer
Another text I studied is "A Streetcar Named Desire" by Tennessee Williams. The character of Stanley Kowalski represents power in this social setting. A pivotal moment occurs when he confronts Blanche DuBois about her past, asserting dominance in their household. His aggressive nature and raw physicality establish him as a powerful figure within the domestic sphere, ultimately leading to his control over both the characters and the environment.
Step 3
Compare what you found most fascinating about the social setting in each of at least two texts on your comparative course. Support your answer with reference to your chosen texts.
Answer
What I found most fascinating about the social settings in "The Great Gatsby" and "A Streetcar Named Desire" is the stark contrast between wealth and poverty, and the impact this has on personal relationships. In "The Great Gatsby", the opulence of the Jazz Age creates an alluring but superficial world where characters like Gatsby are often judged by their wealth rather than their character. This leads to a sense of isolation despite the bustling social gatherings.
In "A Streetcar Named Desire", the setting of New Orleans represents a gritty realism that shelters complex characters dealing with their personal demons. Blanche's arrival contrasts with Stanley's raw lifestyle, exposing the fragility of dreams in the face of harsh realities. The juxtaposition of these social environments not only heightens the tension but also comments on the American Dream and the social hierarchies that dictate lives.