2. HSC Texts - Truman Show, JK Rowling, DMD, The Pedestrian Flashcards
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Back
What is the setting of ‘Past the Shallows’?
A remote coastal town in Tasmania, Australia.
Who are the main characters in the novel?
Brothers Harry, Miles, and Joe.
What themes are prominent in ‘Past the Shallows’?
Family dynamics, grief, masculinity, and the harshness of nature.
How does the sea function symbolically in the novel?
It represents both a livelihood and a source of danger, reflecting the unpredictable nature of life.
What narrative perspective is used in ‘Past the Shallows’?
Third-person limited, focusing on the brothers’ viewpoints.
How does Parrett depict the theme of loss and isolation?
Through the characters’ experiences with their dysfunctional family and the environment.
What is the central premise of ‘The Truman Show’?
A man named Truman Burbank unknowingly lives in a constructed reality TV show.
How does Christof justify the manipulation of Truman’s life?
He believes it provides hope and inspiration to millions.
What is the significance of Truman’s catchphrase, ‘In case I don’t see ya, good afternoon, good evening, and good night’?
It highlights his genuine nature and becomes a powerful statement of his autonomy at the film’s end.
How does the film explore the theme of reality vs. artificiality?
By contrasting Truman’s authentic emotions with the fabricated world around him.
Quote: ‘We accept the reality of the world with which we are presented.’
Speaker: Christof; Idea: Commentary on passive acceptance and control.
How does product placement function in the film?
It satirizes commercialism and the exploitation of Truman’s life for profit.
What does the character Sylvia represent in Truman’s journey?
She symbolizes truth and encourages Truman to seek reality.
How does Truman begin to realize his world is fabricated?
Through inconsistencies and repetitive patterns he observes in his daily life.
What cinematic techniques are used to convey Truman’s entrapment?
Use of close-up shots, diegetic cameras, and the manipulation of the environment.
How does the film end, and what is its significance?
Truman chooses to leave the show, asserting his free will and challenging the ethics of the producers.
What is the setting of ‘The Pedestrian’?
A dystopian future society in the year A.D. 2053.
What activity makes Leonard Mead unusual in the story?
He takes solitary walks at night in a society where everyone stays indoors.
How does the story critique technology?
By showing how over-reliance on technology leads to isolation and loss of humanity.
Quote: ‘The streets were silent and long and empty.’
Technique: Imagery; Idea: Desolation and societal emptiness.
What happens to Leonard Mead at the end of the story?
He is taken away by an automated police car to a psychiatric center.
How does Bradbury use symbolism in ‘The Pedestrian’?
Walking symbolizes individualism and resistance to conformity.
What is the main focus of Garner’s essay ‘Dear Mrs Dunkley’?
Reflecting on her relationship with a strict and intimidating schoolteacher.
