Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Question of the Week (2/8/12)

Post and analyze a monologue from any play or screenplay. Also, post a video clip of the monologe, if you can find one. Post by Monday at 3 p.m. and remember to respond thoughtfully to another classmates' response. What do you think of their analysis? Do you agree or disagree? If so, why or why not.


For example, in the film Sense and Sensibility, Elinor finally unleashes her emotions, that, unbeknownst to her sister she has been keeping secret for quite some time. She has been tending to her sister's broken heart solely until this moment. This is a powerful example of perspective as one sister, who is completely self-absorbed with her own misery, cannot see the exact same pain in her own flesh and blood.


Sense & Sensibility
written by Emma Thompson, from novel by Jane Austen



Elinor: [trying hard to be controlled] Edward made his promise a long time ago, long before he met me. Though he may harbor some regrets, I believe he will be happy in the knowledge that he did his duty and kept his word. After all - after all that is bewitching in the idea of one's happiness depending entirely on one person, it is not always possible. We must accept. Edward will marry Lucy - and you and I will go home.
Marianne (Kate Winslet): Always resignation and acceptance! Always prudence and honor and duty! Elinor, where is your heart?
Elinor: [Finally explodes She turns upon Marianne almost savagely] What do you know of my heart? What do you know of anything but your own suffering? For weeks, Marianne, I've had this pressing on me without being at liberty to speak of it to a single creature. It was forced upon me by the very person whose prior claims ruined all my hopes. I have had to endure her exultation again and again whilst knowing myself to be divided from Edward forever. Believe me, Marianne, had I not been bound to silence I could have produced proof enough of a broken heart even for you!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5yp1RTbWkw (Click to see the scene!)

Happy posting!!