In drama, masks can be used to characterize the actors on
stage. While some are physically present, as in traditions like LeCoq’s mask
theatre, most are metaphorical. A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
and Hedda Gabler by Henrik Ibsen use metaphorical masks to characterize the
main characters, Blanche Dubois and Hedda Tesman. In A Streetcar Named Desire, Blanche slips
into different roles by hiding behind her many masks and in Hedda Gabler,
Hedda reveals her personality with her masks, which is portrayed through the
stage props, symbols and manipulative diction.
Hey Jor,
ReplyDeleteI like your introduction. Your catch could be a bit stronger. You clearly state the title and authors. One thing is that you did not include much context other than the names of the protagonists. You should also clarify why the authors use masks to characterize the protagonists. What is the effect of the masks? What are the different roles of Blanche, and Hedda's personality? If you provide a little more information, your thesis will be much stronger. :)
I would say that, although the first line is important, it does not really need to be a catch. When it comes time for the IB exam you can't really sit there thinking of a catch. You need to be more concise and to the point. I think you're right when you say it should be changed because the first few like you said, need some context.
Delete"In drama, masks can be used to characterize the actors on stage. While some are physically present, as in traditions like LeCoq’s mask theatre, most are metaphorical"
These two sentences could have been used to mention some context rather than defining masks which can be done in less space.
Hey jor,
ReplyDeleteSo i thought that your introduction could have been a bit longer. But i'll get to that in a bit. You clearly state the title and authors of both works, and they dont sound forced or awkward in the context. You also begin to discuss the purpose and effect the masks have on the audience and that play as a whole, however the analysis is a bit shallow, even for an introduction
The only things that I think could be fixed would be to add a little more context about what is happening during the plays, and also you need to add specific literary/dramatic elements that the authors use to display the presence of the masks. And maybe a bit more of an explanation of the purpose and effect of the masks I think that you could have a very strong introduction.
Hi!
ReplyDeleteOverall you covered all major points which can lead easily to flow to the body of the essay. However, your first sentence i felt was abrupt and choppy and could have been incorporated into the second sentence. A catch is not always necessary and i agree it is difficult to come up with one in exam situations but a catch does pique interest and add humor. However, under the stress of exam conditions it is advisable to stick to the tried and tested clinical formula.
Sabrina.