Conclusion analysis
Good conclusions usually refer back to the question or title and address it directly - for example by using key words from the title.
How well do you think these conclusions address the title or question? Answering these questions should help you find out.
- Do they use key words from the title or question?
- Do they answer the question directly?
- Can you work out the question or title just by reading the conclusion?
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Alan Bennett's "Talking Heads" monologues are described as being 'short stories'. With reference to "Her Big Chance" discuss how Bennett Is able to create this genre with what seems to be one voice.
"Conclusion
Bennett creates a short story genre with just Lesley's voice in 'Her Big
Chance.' He does this my making the audience aware of her self delusions.
By Lesley using different tones of voice and body language we can really see
what people think of her. She takes on other characters and this shows the audience what they are like without actually seeing them.
The plot unfolds by Lesley introducing new characters. In a
short story, the characters would introduce themselves but in a 'Talking
Head' Lesley has to do it. In a short story, the focus is as much on the
setting and the costumes as it is on the person that is speaking. In 'Her
Big Chance' everything is plain so we can focus on Lesley as she is the only person speaking. She keeps us interested by always introducing new characters and using body language and tone of voice to express herself."
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Discuss how the dramatic effects of character, language and setting convey Bennett's ideas to his audience?
"In conclusion, through the use of character, language and setting, Bennett has successfully conveyed his ideas to the audience. He has developed a character in Doris with which the audience can easily relate and empathise with. His use of language and setting enables the audience to see this restricted, determined and intelligent lady that has had to come to terms with today's society.
Although the audience can empathise with Doris, because she is an able minded person within a failing body, at the same time Bennett highlights Doris' stubborn side to her nature. This is indicated, particularly when, in her last moments of life she turns her back on help.
Jenny Willis
Page 2"
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Discuss the Theme of Isolation and Loneliness In 'Talking Heads'.
"In conclusion Bennett is showing us that loneliness can apply to anyone and in different forms. The way he has chosen to show loneliness may be a product of male domination within personal relationships. I personally feel he could have written from this perspective because he is male. Also, most of Bennett's plays make the audience aware of the organisations that are provided by the State to cope with the needs of the characters. These efforts are seen as a poor substitute for a family, friends and neighbours. These characters don't have this support and this may be the root of their problems.
Natalie Hough
4
1"