'Small Island': tracking the events of Act 1 Scene 1
I can explain the events of Act 1, Scene 1.
'Small Island': tracking the events of Act 1 Scene 1
I can explain the events of Act 1, Scene 1.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Stella's attitude to the hurricane shows her ignorance - she views it as an exotic experience, neglecting the danger.
- The hurricane is a powerful natural force that exposes truths about the human relations between characters.
- The stage directions show Hortense preparing the schoolhouse, whereas the naive Mrs. Ryder looks out from the open door.
- Hortense’s calmness in the storm suggests she has been shaped by strong forces.
- Freytag’s pyramid can be used to track events and characters.
Common misconception
That Hortense is only motivated by heartbreak.
How does Hortense view herself, even from a young age? She does at times view herself as superior. Furthermore, she has lived in the house for a long time and has perhaps internalised the moral and religious standards that Mr. Philip holds.
Keywords
Mischievous - showing a fondness for causing trouble
Blasphemy - to use language or act in a way that disrespects God
Mother country - xan refer to the country you are born in or a country you are emotionally attached to; in colonial countries Britain is often referred to in this way
Stage directions - an instruction in the play script that explains how it should be performed and presented
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the play 'Small Island' written by Andrea Levy and adapted for the stage by Helen Edmundson
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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