IB Junior English Journal Response 27

Read Act 1

1) Create a list of symbols that you come across.

2) Examine how Lorca characterize the archetypes of the play?

3) Does Lorca embrace or reject the archetype?

4) What is the effect of the characterization?

Journal 2 of Lorca (Symbols & Characterization)

1) Symbols:

-Knives, Dagger

-Vineyards

-Water

-Horse

-Vines

-Blood

-Flower

-Child

-Land (Farming)
-Color (Yellow & Pink)

2) Lorca characterizes the Mother as having an irritated tone towards others.  They are older and more religious.  Her sharp remarks towards the Bridegroom are shown in the quote, “What would an old woman do in the vineyard!  Would you hid me under the vine leaves?” (7). The author characterizes the Neighbor as good-natured and sensible as in the quote, “you’re right…your son deserves the best.” (14). When MOTHER seems to be reacting very emotionally, the Neighbor says, “Control yourself...you’re getting old…for you and me it is time to be silent.” (16).

3) Lorca seems to reject the archetype of the mother because he makes it seem as if she is making every situation uncomfortable.  For instance, when the Father was talking to her about his harvesting experiences, she replied, “Don’t complain - I didn’t come to ask you for anything.” (29).  The archetype of the Neighbor appears to be favored by Lorca because of his/her peaceful attitude towards MOTHER in the quote, “Pardon me!  I didn’t mean to offend you, but it’s true…whether or not she was a decent woman, no one said” (14).

4) The author seems to be making two characters with opposite character archetypes to converse.  This creates contrast and reveals more aspects of both characters.  Through these types of conversations, the ideals of society represented in the book starts to show (e.g. the old should not be outspoken in the community).