Opening Sequence Essay - Paragraph 5 - Introduction to Warden Norton Flashcards
What does the audiences first introduction to Warden Norton immediately create?
A foreboding atmosphere and instils fear within the viewer, instantly dashing the viewers hope for Andy within the prison and law simultaneously.
Warden Norton initially appears from the shadows into light that illuminates his face. What does Darabont’s apt use of lighting convey to the viewer?
While Warden Norton presents himself as a respectable man of good intention the audience is left with the impression that he is not all that he seems and that he is hiding a darkness himself. This further insinuates that the law in itself in Shawshank is twisted and unjust as Warden Norton is the leader of the guards and therefore their treatment of the prisoners within Shawshank. Infers loss of hope within Shawshank. Links to his faith and religion.
Warden Norton is seen sporting a shining copper cross pin against his dark Navy Blazer. What does this show?
While his religion is centred around kindness, acceptance and a faith in humanities goodness, the viewer is given the impression that in comparison he is a dangerous, malicious character with ill intent and the belief that the prisoners are unable to better themselves and inferior to him.
What does the Warden’s contrast to religion and the hope that it is linked to imply?
That he is the reason for the hopelessness within Shawshank prison.
Norton’s face is half shadowed and half illuminated, what does this solidify?
The audiences uncertainty around his intentions and hints at the façade his evil hides behind, expertly squashing the audiences hope.
