With close reference to the language and action of the following passage, discuss Williams presentation of Blanches first appearance in the play.

Review of essay

Rating: 3 star(s)

Response to the question

This essay has potential, and shows a thorough knowledge of the opening scene of the play. The introduction is okay, with the first three sentences offering an effective opening. However, the rest of the introduction begins to summarise the plot rather than focus on the techniques Williams uses. It is important that you maintain an analytical stance rather than simply retelling the story, as you won't gain marks for simple knowledge. To sustain analysis, there needs to be discussion of techniques rather than what happens in the play.

Level of analysis

The essay's analysis is more akin to a GCSE essay. At A-Level you are expected to discuss techniques collectively, rather than feature spot. For example this essays talks of Williams use of "delicate beauty" as an oxymoron and some symbols. This analysis is good, but in isolation it doesn't build an argument. You should be looking at constructing paragraphs to analyse language, form and structure rather than going chronologically through the plot picking techniques. I did like how there was an awareness of authorial construction: phrases such as "Williams uses" or "Williams portrays" show the examiner that you understand there is a purpose to the play. There is some discussion of the audience response in this essay, but if it wants to move into the higher bands this needs to be me thorough. I would've liked to have seen more focus on tragedy as a genre, looking at how Williams may be constructing Blanche's hamartia in the opening scene. Such discussion will elevate this essay.

Quality of writing