In
the extract of the TV drama Merlin there are many ways in which class and
status are represented. To begin with, the camera shots and movement are a main
factor in how class and status are represented. The different shot types used
help create a fantastical atmosphere. For example in the beginning of the
extract, pan shots are used quite a lot as we watch Merlin walk through the
corridors of the castle, coming out of the castle and then walking through the
streets of the market. These pan shots may help emphasise Merlin’s low class
status as he is compared to the enormity of the castle, therefore making him
seem smaller. However in comparison to this, a mid-shot is used to establish
Prince Arthur’s involvement in the scene. We see him walking powerfully through
the streets, a slight low angle shot is used which may help illustrate his size
and importance compared to Merlin.
Secondly
the editing of the extract also constructs the ways in which class and status
are represented. In the fight sequence, there is a use of fast editing and slow
motion shots, this emphasises and creates a sense of danger within the scene.
The fight sequence is a vital part of establishing class and status within the
extract. This is because as for the first time a member of the servant class
stands up and challenges the Prince. In effect, when Merlin does this it challenges
the status quo of the medieval system. The conflict and the scene is increased
with the fast editing during the fight scene as the camera jump cuts from
different elements in the marketplace to characters weapons and even their
faces to imply danger and harsh conflict during the scene. In contrast slow
motion is used; this highlights the Prince’s attitude and illustrates to us how
he is able to break the rules of society as he challenges and fights Merlin in
the middle of the street. The slow motion also highlights the danger and heated
emotions within the fights, as we are able to look closely and identify
specific actions taking place. Match on action is also used as we see Merlin
leaving the castle, walking into the market. This contrasts both the classes,
as we can easily identify the differences between the grand, exquisite castle
which looks quite peaceful and undisturbed. As Merlin walks into the market it’s
immediately very busy and run down. This strong contrast gives us the
impression of what is expected of a servant class’ atmosphere and surroundings.
Furthermore
there is editing during the confrontation scene between Merlin and the Prince.
They both engage in armed conflict as the two share a heated discussion
swapping insults. When Merlin tries to walk away, only the camera here can see
his face in reaction to the arrival of the Prince, however none of the other
characters in the scene are aware of his facial expressions. Here the audience
are placed in the Prince’s position because of the emotional and physical reactions
to the Prince’s words are visible to only us. This brings us into the battle of
the classes.
Sound
within the extract also adds to the representation of class and status. In the
extract sound is used to add tension to situations. For example, when Merlin is
in the Princess’ room without her permission, the non-diagetic music is used to
create tension and create a sense that Merlin is breaking a rule and could get
into a lot of trouble. The music adds tension in this case. Another example is
once the fight scene begins, the orchestral music begins. This adds to the atmosphere
putting us the audience on edge and creating a livelier atmosphere. As soon as
the fight scene finishes, the low toned orchestral music begins. This implies a
sign that the fight is over, everything has slowed down and only one of the
classes has won.
Finally
the mise en scene gives a representation of class and status as it shows the
different characters and their environments and when they are out of them. For
example when the Prince is firstly introduced into the scene, he has his guards
standing next to him. In comparison Merlin’s entrance where he is shown through
a pan shot walking down the corridor alone. This contrasts and illustrates that
both classes are very different. In addition the clean white halls of the
castle contrast to the dark, small environment that the two servants are in.
Furthermore the clothes that both the classes are wearing contrast. The scraggy,
dirty and ripped clothes of the servants and the clean and practical clothes of
the soldiers, also carrying armour and weapons to show their higher class and
status symbols as they are above the servants. In the fight scene Merlin is forced
to bend and pick up the weapon he drops. This illustrates his lower class as he
is involuntarily bowing to the Prince and how he is going to be forced into his
class position by the Prince’s physical might. However, the fight scene does
subvert social class and status as Merlin is able to defeat the prince through
his cunning magic. There is a back and forth subversion between the Prince and
Merlin as they are fighting, Merlin knocks the Prince to the ground, therefore
gaining higher status. But this doesn’t last long, as the Prince knocks Merlin
to the ground. However within the beginning of the scene there are powerful
elements for example the Prince, Princess and the old man controlling Merlin
and telling him what to do. Merlin is the definition of class as he is told
what to do by his masters. He is told to take the jar to the Princess, so he
does. He is told to stop fighting with the Prince so he does and finally he is
told to stop using magic which he refuses. He explains that if he doesn’t use
magic, he has nothing. This creates empathy as we see that magic is all he has.
In
conclusion I believe class and status is represented well through the use camera
work, sound, editing and mise en scene. We can clearly identify what is trying
to be portrayed within the extract through the use of this.
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