Question 3 Andrea Morrison

Question 3: As your text says in the chapter “Character”, “Authors reveal characters by other means [than words and actions]. Physical descriptions can indicate important inner qualities; disheveled clothing, a crafty smile, or a blush might communicate as much as or more than what a character says. Characters can also be revealed by the words and actions of others who respond to them” (117). Consider both Carol and John’s clothing, general physical appearance, body language, and facial expressions. How do these things contribute to their character development? Consider especially Carol’s changing outfits and demeanor should you focus on her; you might think about John’s clothing, mannerisms, and how he moves in his physical space (as well as what that space looks like) if you focus on John.

Physical characteristics are an essential asset to human judgment and development. When initially meeting someone, before you have the opportunity to engage in any conversation, appearance is key. Instantly we evaluate someone’s clothes, hair color, facial expression, and so forth. Upon the opening of this movie we see Carol dressed in dull grungy clothes, with her hair pulled back and large round glasses. Physically she looks like an outcast but personally she seems closed off, insecure, and unsure. While discussing the course with Professor John she is constantly raising questions and seems easily overwhelmed; her facial expressions appear frantic as she scurry’s through her text book and notes. During their first meeting John is dressed professional and appears calm and rational even though chaos is erupting around him concerning his new home. John comes off as almost arrogant as he is consumed with his own self confidence when discussing the topics of his book, class, and ten year. Carol remains distressed throughout the first two parts of this movie claiming “she does not understand” and is constantly acts as the “damsel in distress.” Carol continues to appear weak and intangible claiming John has sexual harassed her during their first meeting. Here we begin to see a shift of power as Carol begains to appear mentally strong and forceful when her and John speak alone but once they are in the eye of the public she once again appears flustered. By the end of the movie the roles of power have switched; physically Carol appears strong in a suit and holds her head high as she talks to John. Carol can often be seen physically cornering John as he attempts to make sense of the accusations at hand. John appears physically disastrous with messy hair, ripped and dirty clothes, and attempts to drink or smoke multiple times throughout their last conversation. Physical appearance is an instant way we judge one another, although not always accurate, we can easily tell if someone is tired, stressed, or calm. Physical appearance in this movie is strongly associated with power and confidence and can be proven through every scene in this film.