His Dark Materials: Language and Representation blog tasks

 Language and close-textual analysis

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.)

Camerawork, editing and sound: 

 The episode uses varied camera techniques to enhance storytelling. A high-angle shot during the protagonist's first encounter with the antagonist establishes power dynamics and vulnerability. Switching to a low-angle shot of the antagonist magnifies their menace, creating visual tension.Editing is crucial for pacing. Quick cuts during action scenes, like the chase sequence, convey urgency and chaos. Slower editing during intimate moments allows for emotional connection, such as a long take during a heartfelt conversation emphasizing dialogue and expressions.Sound design supports the narrative. Amplified diegetic sounds, like footsteps, immerse the viewer in tense scenes. Non-diegetic music underscores emotional tones, with ominous music during the antagonist's appearances building dread and anticipation.

Mise-en-scene:

The mise-en-scene reflects the episode's themes and mood. A dystopian cityscape with cold, metallic architecture and dim lighting creates a bleak atmosphere, reinforcing themes of control and resistance.Costuming defines character identities. The protagonist's worn attire suggests hardship, contrasting with the antagonist's pristine uniform symbolizing power. Props, like the protagonist's makeshift tools versus the antagonist's high-tech gadgets, highlight resource disparities.Expressive lighting, such as high-contrast lighting with deep shadows, enhances dramatic tension and underscores moral ambiguities. Chiaroscuro lighting in a climactic scene symbolizes the protagonist's internal conflict between hope and despair. 

Narrative and genre: 

The episode fits within the dystopian sci-fi genre, following a hero's journey narrative. The protagonist's quest to overthrow an oppressive regime includes complex motivations and moral grey areas, adding depth to the genre.The narrative interweaves escalating external and internal conflicts. Cliffhangers at key scenes maintain engagement and anticipation. Themes of resistance, sacrifice, and freedom are central, explored through character development. The protagonist's evolution from reluctant survivor to determined leader, and the antagonist's complexity, enrich the narrative.

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 fits the fantasy TV genre through its richly imagined world, complex characters, and magical elements. The series, based on Philip Pullman's novels, features parallel universes, daemons, and mystical artifacts, aligning with the genre's focus on epic storytelling and grand themes of destiny and the battle between good and evil. The intricate world-building and young protagonists on a hero's journey provide adventure, moral dilemmas, and personal growth, all key aspects of fantasy narratives.

3) Applying Propp's character theory, what character roles do some of the main characters in His Dark Materials fit into? 

In His Dark Materials, Lyra Belacqua is the hero, embarking on a quest to uncover the truth about Dust. Lord Asriel and Marisa Coulter serve as both villains and donors, providing challenges and crucial information. The alethiometer is a magical helper, guiding Lyra. Iorek Byrnison and Lee Scoresby are helpers, assisting in her journey. Roger Parslow, ultimately a victim, motivates Lyra's actions, fitting the role of the princess in Propp's character theory.

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, enigma codes are seen in the mysterious nature of Dust, prompting questions about its origin and purpose. The diegetic sound, like whispered secrets and ambient noises in scholarly settings, enhances this mystery. Action codes appear in dynamic battle scenes, with swift camera movements and close-up shots of daemon interactions signaling conflict and danger. The contrasting mise-en-scène, such as clinical laboratories versus warm Gyptian boats, highlights thematic tensions. Non-diegetic music during moments of revelation or peril propels the narrative, intertwining mystery and action effectively.

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.

 

In His Dark Materials, binary oppositions like good versus evil, knowledge versus ignorance, and freedom versus control drive the narrative. The conflict between the authoritarian Magisterium (control) and rebels like Lyra and Lord Asriel (freedom) creates dramatic tension. The quest to understand Dust (knowledge) against the Magisterium's suppression (ignorance) further deepens the plot. These oppositions highlight moral complexities, engaging the audience by emphasizing the stakes and conflicts in 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.

In His Dark Materials, women are represented in nuanced ways that both subvert and engage with gender stereotypes. Lyra challenges traditional norms with her bravery and intelligence, taking on a heroic role typically reserved for male characters. Mrs. Coulter initially fits the femme fatale stereotype but evolves into a complex character driven by ambition and maternal instincts, challenging simplistic portrayals of women in the story. These portrayals offer a diverse and rich exploration of gender roles in the narrative.

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

In His Dark Materials, men and masculinity are portrayed in diverse ways that challenge traditional stereotypes. Will and Lee Scoresby exemplify masculinity through courage, loyalty, and compassion rather than just physical strength or dominance. Their characters emphasize emotional depth and moral values, offering nuanced depictions of male identity beyond traditional norms of masculinity.

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.

In His Dark Materials, age is portrayed in nuanced ways that challenge stereotypes about young people and adults. Lyra and Will defy common teenage stereotypes by displaying resilience, intelligence, and agency beyond their years, showcasing growth and maturity throughout their journey. The abandoned children they encounter also challenge stereotypes by demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness despite their vulnerable situations.Adult characters like Mrs. Coulter and Lord Asriel are depicted with complexity, going beyond simple hero or villain roles. Mrs. Coulter challenges stereotypes associated with motherhood and femininity by embodying ambition and cunning, while Lord Asriel's actions blur the lines between heroism and ruthlessness. The series delves into the motivations and complexities of adulthood through these characters, offering a diverse and nuanced portrayal of individuals at different stages of life, ultimately challenging simplistic age-related stereotypes.

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

In His Dark Materials, race and ethnicity are represented diversely, with characters like Lee Scoresby and John Faa showcasing varied backgrounds without falling into stereotypes. Serafina Pekkala and Dr. Lanselius represent different cultures respectfully, with their actions shaped by their backgrounds rather than clichés. While the series isn't free from all stereotypes, it generally provides a complex and inclusive representation of race and ethnicity, contributing to a diverse fictional world.

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.

In Season 2, Episode 1 of His Dark Materials, the world presented is a blend of fantasy and real-life elements. Cittàgazze features historical European architecture and bustling streets, reminiscent of a past era. However, the presence of Specters and daemons adds fantastical and supernatural elements to the setting, creating a unique and immersive world that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy.