ATAR Notes: Forum
VCE Stuff => VCE English Studies => VCE Subjects + Help => VCE English Work Submission and Marking => Topic started by: Jake1994 on September 09, 2012, 09:09:10 pm
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I have this due very soon, and I just cant seem to get much out of it. Its barely a paragraph, but have you got any ideas on what I could do with it? :-\
The intro isnt here either because I normally do that last...
“I come also as a hero of the deed that till now was never attempted”.
How does Malouf explore this idea of heroism in Ransom?
Contrary to the stereotypical belief of a hero, Malouf explores whether a hero can truly be aspirable. To be a hero is stereotypically seen as a positive and self-fulfilling role in which an individual will feel proud and achieved, yet Malouf portrays the very opposite of this in “Ransom”. Malouf depicts this through Achilles; a half-god warrior who is lost within the 9 year battle for Troy. Achilles struggle to go on was emphasised when he struck the killing blow to Hector which was seen to be the most vital moment he had as a hero. However Malouf depicted this moment as a harsh and unsatisfying moment, as “still his grief was not consumed”. This is further shown in which Achilles becomes tormented with grief as he realises that he is without saving because his only redemption he knew had already been done. Through this Malouf shows the stereotypical hero to be one who is suffering and is therefore clearly not aspirable.
Malouf demonstrates to the reader that an individual doesn’t have to be a warrior to be a hero. Once again, Malouf shows the readers that the stereotype of a hero being a saviour relying on physical force to not always be the case. This is shown through Priam, and consolidated to a further extent when contrasted with Priam.
Please help, I'm stressing out :/
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Think about what is heroic about the three leads (Priam, Achilles, and also SOMAX) - think about what is distinct about all of their heroic qualities. Perhaps think about how that might in turn easily for a three-paragraph split.
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You definitely have the right idea about what Malouf is trying to convey. Heres a couple ideas to play off. Remember to discuss the three leads, because they are what Malouf uses to contrast heroism through the novel.
- Priams journey to ransom for Hectors body is seen as true heroism. Heroism isn't necessarily found on the battlefield, and this is insinuated through Priams moral integrity and decency to confront his enemy man to man and console
- Somax is an example of someone who views life in his completeness. Through Somax, Malouf exemplifies that a true hero does not walk the earth woefully. Somax has lost many sons, yet still keeps his respect as a man and continues to care for those who deserve it. He sees death as not an end but rather a transition, and often shows that there is no use in acting out of rage (Achilles) because it does not bring back those you have lost. His heroism is found not in his strength through battle, but rather through his ability to accept life as it is.
Hope that helps a little.
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Just a quick point, but think about when Achilles truly does act 'heroically'
Is it when he kills Hector, or is it when he reconciles his humanity in his meeting with Priam, where he is able to overcome his grief/anger
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Thankyou heaps guys, that really helps a lot :)
I really appreciate it :)