His Dark Materials: Language and Representation

 His Dark Materials: Language and Representation

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: 

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

• Close-up shots of Mrs Coulter - show her power and dominance. 

• CGI - talking animals (daemons). Lyra’s demon is Pan. Lee Scoresby’s daemon is female and American.

• Camerawork and fast-paced editing for the chase scene - high angle drone shots, camera movement and fast cuts. 

• Low angle shots of Mrs Coulter emphasise her power; witch shown from high angle to show weakness. 

Mise-en-scene:

• Settings - cave into forest, ‘city in the sky’

• Storm/rain - connotations of danger but also reminding audiences her friend Roger died in season

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

• Props / setting / set dressing - steampunk. Hot air balloon, gadgets etc.

• Costume reflects different worlds / backgrounds. Lyra also in non-feminine costume to emphasise representation.

• Lighting - for both Mrs Coulter and the witch who kills the cardinal. Both emphasise power.

Narrative and genre: 

• Steampunk genre - futuristic genre but with old, Victorian technology (mix of old and new). Airships, submarine.

• Steampunk and fantasy genre - submarine and the rift.

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

• Chase scene - both action and enigma codes (who are they chasing and what will happen).

• Lyra and Will agree to work together - narrative and character development. Also creates audience pleasure. 

• Narrative - “The prophecy has begun”. Lyra - creates enigma and action codes; narrative arc for all three seasons of HDM.

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

His Dark Materials skillfully uses a variety of storytelling techniques to embrace the fantasy TV genre's tropes. First of all, the show immerses viewers in a parallel universe full with magical elements, mythological animals, and amazing landscapes thanks to its rich and sophisticated world-building. One of the main traits of the fantasy genre is its dedication to producing an engaging and imaginative environment.

Second, a wide variety of magical and mythical themes, like daemons, witches, and armoured polar bears, are included in His Dark Materials. These components enhance the show's overall surreal ambiance in addition to adding a feeling of wonder and mysticism. These amazing animals fit right in with the conventional fantasy genre, where magical creatures are frequently major plot points.

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

Propp's character theory allows for the character rolesization of a number of the primary characters in His Dark Materials. For example, the protagonist Lyra Belacqua embodies the Hero archetype as she sets out on a life-changing quest to preserve her world. However, Lord Asriel, who opposes the protagonist's ambitions and acts as a fierce enemy throughout the series, symbolises the Villain character. Other characters that first seem to be allies but subsequently show their actual objectives, like Mrs. Coulter, can be recognised as the False Hero. We may comprehend the narrative structure and character dynamics in Philip Pullman's engrossing trilogy better by using 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.)

Enigma codes are expertly used by author Philip Pullman in His Dark Materials to evoke mystery and interest throughout the narrative. The mysterious properties of the alethiometer, a tool that gives its users information and insight, are one such example. Pullman uses a variety of camera angles and media language to illustrate the alethiometer's secret code. For example, the camera frequently pans in on Lyra's face throughout her consultations with the alethiometer, highlighting the importance of the data she is looking for and showing her great focus. By asking the audience to solve the mystery with Lyra, the close-up shots build tension and keep them interested.

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. 

One well-known instance of binary opposition in His Dark Materials is the contrast between the worlds of the human race and the parallel reality referred to as "the other world." The protagonists must negotiate the tensions and distinctions between these two worlds as a result of this contrast, which heightens the narrative. A further binary opposition is introduced by the contrast between the free-thinking scholars and witches and the authoritarian Magisterium, emphasising the power struggles and ideological conflicts that exist inside the narrative.

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 portrayed in a way that simultaneously reinforces and challenges gender norms. Lyra is a fearless, self-reliant, and perceptive young lady who defies gender norms. She frequently adopts stereotypically masculine roles and behaviours and is bold, resourceful, and daring. Her persona defies gender norms by exhibiting bravery, leadership, and a strong feeling of independence.Initially, Ms. Coulter's portrayal as stunning, glitzy, and cunning perpetuates gender norms. She possesses qualities that are usually linked to feminine allure and charm. However, she also dispels gender norms by being a formidable and driven woman involved in prominent scientific and political pursuits.

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

His Dark Materials presents men and masculinity in a variety of ways. For instance, Will Parry is portrayed as a brave, intelligent, and responsible man who watches out for his mother while navigating the complex and perilous world of His Dark Materials. His duty and empathy characterise him more than his physical prowess. Conversely, Lee Scoresby embodies the quintessential macho persona. He is a bold, devoted, and daring aeronaut from Texas. He is an honest, honourable, and accomplished fighter pilot. But Lee also demonstrates compassion and a close emotional connection 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 presents age in a number of ways that both support and contradict common perceptions about youth.Emma Thompson's character Lyra and James McAvaty's character Will are portrayed as autonomous, creative, and capable of making their own judgements. Their intelligence and determination contradict the common perception of teenagers as careless and impetuous.They exhibit maturity beyond their years in that they are also kind and understanding towards abandoned children.The concept that young people are defenceless and reliant on others may be strengthened by the portrayal of the abandoned children as defenceless and in need of protection.A more detailed portrayal of other adults is given to Mrs. Coulter (played by Lucy Maud Montgomery).While some of them are cunning and deceptive, others are compassionate and helpful.The stereotype that grownups are just powerful and authoritative is contested by this complex portrayal. It also demonstrates the range of adult personalities and behaviours.

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

His Dark Materials does not openly address race or ethnicity, in contrast to a number of other works of literature. Nonetheless, the show does have individuals from a variety of ethnic and cultural origins, suggesting a diverse and diversified society.The programme frequently dispels prejudices by presenting complex, multidimensional personalities from a range of backgrounds. The Gyptians are one group of maritime people who dispel the myth that they are just vagrants; they have been shown to have a strong sense of community and deep familial relationships. Furthermore, characters from the Magisterium, like as Mrs. Coulter and Lord Asriel, are portrayed to be ruthless and power-hungry, regardless of their race or cultural background.

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.

It's possible to argue that the episode's worldview blends parts of reality and fiction. The episode takes place in a modern world with popular technology and urban settings, but it also features incredible elements like mystical animals, state-of-the-art equipment, and breathtaking landscapes.For example, flying cars and advanced holographic displays are examples of futuristic society features in the episode. Mythological creatures like fairies and dragons, as well as magical spells and skills, lend the world a whimsical feel.When everything is said and done, the episode creates a universe that is a unique blend of fantasy and reality, which makes it an engaging and intriguing setting for the story.