Using the following extract as a starting point, explore the ways Golding presents the relationship between Goody Pangall and Roger Mason.

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Extract Essay

Using the following extract as a starting point, explore the ways Golding presents the relationship between Goody Pangall and Roger Mason.

Extract – p56, last paragraph -> “shaking her head” p57

     The opening of the extract reveals that the relationship between the pair may not be mutual, and may appear to Goody to be threatening. This becomes apparent through the way in which her movements are described as being “brisk” yet “without much will to go forward”. This provokes the reader to fathom that there is some sort of aggressive energy between the duo, particularly when coupled with the projected image of “open terror” in her face. This may seem to be Golding’s method by which to foreshadow any abusive occurrences yet to come such as rape or violence. However, this whilst it may initially appear to be an abusive situation for Goody is infact quite the opposite as it is later revealed that her timid actions are not due to fear of an aggressor, but due to the “tent” which is said to be “feared” by them both.

     This “tent” as it is described is an invisible bond between the two, much like the “rope” which once tethered together Jocelin and Pangall. This bond however, unlike that between the two priests is almost self-enforcing as it confines them with each other and is described as having “shut them off” from the other characters. As this union between them is said to be “shut” it implies that the relationship is intended to remain private, which is unsurprising given the ideas and values of the time and their surroundings as it would be deemed strictly improper for this relationship to continue within the sanctity of the cathedral, and in particular is between two married people which even by modern standards is considered a taboo and so bears considerable stigma. The “tent” forms a palpable enclosure of secrecy in which the pair may act as they wish without being exposed, however the opaque exterior of the “tent” does not necessarily prevent their discovery as it has no barrier for sound, and under close and suspicious scrutiny becomes transparent, revealing their scandal.

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     The “fear” expressed by Goody Pangall may also be a sign of guilt as it would be truly shameful for her affair to be unveiled, particularly by her husband. Also, the relationship between the pair is most likely based upon a physical attraction derived from the base instinct, lust. As such, the timing for the emergence of their relationship lends itself willingly to the overall plot as the stench of stagnant water and death emitted by the pit is symbolic of the Freudian id, as it is taken to be the more concealed and inviolable facet of the ...

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