His Dark Materials: Language and Representation blog tasks

 

            His Dark Materials: Language and Representation blog tasks

1) Write an analysis of the episode - using your notes from the screening in class. Make specific, detailed reference to moments in the text using media terminology (e.g. media language - camera shots and movement, editing, diegetic/non-diegetic sound, mise-en-scene etc.)

You can currently watch His Dark Materials on BBC iPlayer here.

• Sound: non-diegetic music - epic, orchestral music sets adventure genre and atmosphere. 

• Establishing shots - mountains/rainforest; city in the sky; rift in sky; ocean. Epic locations - action/adventure genre. 

• CGI - airships, talking animals, witches

• • Costume: Mrs Coulter red costume and lipstick - connotation of danger. ‘Femme fatale’ - dangerous female.

  • Costume: military and religious costume.

  • “The witches will want us to fight” - narrative device. Suggests future conflict (action code).

  • Lyra and Will character development - agree to work together in this scene. Creates audience pleasure - a team to support.

  • Representation of age - children are in charge, grown ups are in danger. 

  • Subversion of gender roles - girls about to fight, Will breaks it up. 

  • Religion - references to dust and sin.

You can access our notes from the close-textual analysis in a previous class here - you'll need your Greenford Google login to open this.

2) How does His Dark Materials fit the conventions of the fantasy TV genre?

His Dark Materials deftly embraces the clichés of the fantasy TV genre by utilising a range of storytelling devices. First of all, the show's intricate and profound world-building transports viewers to a parallel dimension teeming with magical creatures, mythological creatures, and breathtaking scenery. A primary characteristic of the fantasy genre is its commitment to creating a captivating and imaginative setting.Second, His Dark Materials contains a wide range of mystical and mythological elements, such as armoured polar bears, witches, and daemons. These elements give a sense of awe and mysticism while also enhancing the show's overall bizarre atmosphere. These incredible creatures are a perfect fit for the traditional fantasy subgenre, where supernatural creatures are often central to the story.

3) Applying Propp's character theory, what character roles do some of the main characters in His Dark Materials fit into? 
Many of the main characters in His Dark Materials can be character rolesized because to Propp's character theory. For instance, Lyra Belacqua, the main character, personifies the Hero archetype as she embarks on a transformative journey to save her world. But the villainous figure is represented by Lord Asriel, who stands in the way of the protagonist's goals and provides a constant threat throughout the narrative. Other individuals, such as Mrs. Coulter, who appear to be allies at first but later reveal their true intentions, are identifiable as False Heroes. Using Propp's character theory, we can gain a deeper understanding of the narrative structure and character interactions in Philip Pullman's captivating trilogy.
4) What enigma and action codes (Barthes) can you find in His Dark Materials? Make specific, detailed reference to the text using media terminology (e.g. media language - camera shots, diegetic/non-diegetic sound, mise-en-scene etc.)
In His Dark Materials, author Philip Pullman skillfully employs enigma codes to create intrigue and mystery throughout the story. One such example is the enigmatic qualities of the alethiometer, a device that provides information and insight to its users. Pullman illustrates the hidden code of the alethiometer using a range of camera angles and media language. For instance, during Lyra's consultations with the alethiometer, the camera repeatedly pans in on her face, emphasising the significance of the information she is seeking and demonstrating her intense focus. The tight shots heighten the suspense and hold the viewer's attention by challenging them to unravel the mystery alongside Lyra.
5) What examples of binary opposition (Levi-Strauss) can you find in His Dark Materials? How do these create narrative or drama for the audience? You can find reminder notes on all these narrative theories here - just scroll down to narrative. 
An iconic example of binary opposition in His Dark Materials is the difference between the human world and the alternate reality known as "the other world." This contrast heightens the narrative as the protagonists have to deal with the tensions and differences between these two universes. The contrast between the authoritarian Magisterium and the free-thinking scholars and witches introduces another binary opposition, highlighting the internal power struggles and ideological disputes inside the story.

Representations

1) How are women represented in His Dark Materials? Are gender stereotypes reinforced or subverted? Think about Lyra and Mrs Coulter here.

The way women are portrayed in His Dark Materials is a mixture of reinforcing and subverting gender stereotypes. Lyra is a brave, independent, intelligent young woman who challenges gender stereotypes. She is brave, courageous, resourceful, and often takes on traditional male roles and behavior. Her character challenges gender stereotypes by showing bravery, leadership and a strong sense of self-determination.At first, Ms. Coulter reinforces gender stereotypes by being portrayed as beautiful, glamorous, and manipulative. She has traits typically associated with feminine charm and seduction. But she also challenges gender stereotypes by being a strong and ambitious woman engaged in high level political and scientific endeavors.

She is a complicated character who challenges traditional notions of maternal and nurturing femininity.

2) How are men and masculinity represented in His Dark Materials? Think about Will and Lee Scoresby here.

Men and masculinity are portrayed in different ways in His Dark Materials. For example, Will Parry is portrayed as a strong, caring, and responsible man who looks out for his mother and demonstrates his courage and intellect as he moves through the intricate and dangerous world of His Dark Materials. He is not defined by his physical strength but by his empathy and duty.

Lee Scoresby, on the other hand, is a classic masculine character. He is an aeronaut from Texas who is adventurous, loyal, and brave. He is a skilled fighter pilot with a sense of honor and honesty. But Lee also shows kindness and a strong emotional bond with his demon. This shows that masculinity in His Dark Materials is not limited to stereotypes.

3) How is age (e.g. teenagers; adults) represented in His Dark Materials? Does the show reinforce or challenge stereotypes about young people? Think about Lyra and Will plus the abandoned children they meet. Also think about Mrs Coulter and other adults.

His Dark Materials portrays age in a variety of ways, both in terms of reinforcing and challenging stereotypes about youth.The two main protagonists, Lyra (played by Emma Thompson) and Will (played by James McAvaty), are depicted as independent, inventive, and able to make decisions on their own. They are smart and determined, which challenges the stereotypical image of reckless, impulsive teens.They are also empathetic and caring towards abandoned children, showing maturity beyond their age.The abandoned children, however, are portrayed as vulnerable and needing protection, which may reinforce the idea that young people are helpless and dependent on others.Other adults, such as Mrs. Coulter (played by Lucy Maud Montgomery), are presented in a nuanced way. Some of them are deceitful and manipulative, while others are kind and supportive.This nuanced representation challenges the idea that adults are exclusively authoritative and powerful. It also shows a variety of personalities and behavior among adults.

4) How is race and ethnicity represented in His Dark Materials? Are stereotypes reinforced or subverted?

Unlike several other works of fiction, race and ethnicity are not discussed overtly in His Dark Materials. The show does, however, feature characters from a range of nationalities and cultural backgrounds, implying a multicultural and varied society.The show typically challenges stereotypes by showcasing nuanced, multifaceted characters from a variety of backgrounds. One group of seafaring people who defies misconceptions about them being merely vagrants is the Gyptians, who are proven to have a strong sense of community and close familial ties. In addition, regardless of their race or cultural origin, figures from the Magisterium, like Mrs. Coulter and Lord Asriel, are shown to be vicious and power-hungry.

5) What representations of the world can you find in the episode - is it like real life? A fantasy world? Something from the past or future? Give examples from the episode.

One could argue that the episode's depictions of the world combine elements of fantasy and reality. The episode is set in a contemporary world with well-known technology and metropolitan settings, but it also has amazing aspects like magical animals, cutting-edge technology, and beautiful scenery.For instance, the episode features characteristics of a futuristic civilization, such as flying cars and sophisticated holographic displays. A fantastical flavour is also added to the environment by the inclusion of magical spells and skills, as well as mythical creatures like fairies and dragons.All things considered, the episode crafts a universe that is a singular fusion of imagination and reality, which makes it an engrossing and captivating backdrop for the narrative.