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LITERARY DEVICES AND 20 MORAL AND PHILOSOPHICAL QUESTIONS FROM THE MOVIE:
ELIZABETH BY SHEKHAR KAPUR
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literary devices used in the movie Elizabeth by Shekhar Kapur
What moral and philosophical questions do we learn in the movie Elizabeth by Shekhar Kapur
1.
Foreshadowing - hinting at what comes later in the movie
2.
Symbolism - the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities
3.
Metaphor - a comparison between two things without using
"like" or "as"
4.
Simile - a comparison between two things using "like" or
"as"
5.
Allusion - a reference to a person, place, or event from history,
literature, or mythology
6.
Irony - when the opposite of what is expected happens
7.
Personification - giving human qualities to non-human things
8.
Hyperbole - exaggerated statements not meant to be taken literally
9.
Imagery - visually descriptive or figurative language
10.
Flashback - a scene set earlier than the main story
11.
Allegory - a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a
hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one
12.
Anaphora - the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of
successive clauses or sentences
13.
Epiphora - the repetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive
clauses or sentences
14.
Chiasmus - a rhetorical device in which two or more clauses are balanced
against each other by reversing their structures
15.
Antithesis - a contrast or opposition between two things
16.
Juxtaposition - placing two things side by side to show a contrast or
comparison
17.
Alliteration - the repetition of the same sound at the beginning of
several words in a row
18.
Onomatopoeia - the use of words that sound like what they mean
19.
Euphemism - a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one
considered too harsh or blunt
20. Idiom
- a group of words whose meaning cannot be predicted from the meanings of the
individual words
21.
Synecdoche - a figure of speech in which a part represents the whole
22.
Metonymy - a figure of speech in which a thing is called not by its own
name but by the name of something associated with it
23.
Anthropomorphism - the attribution of human characteristics to animals
or inanimate objects
24.
Pathetic fallacy - the attribution of human emotions to inanimate
objects or nature
25.
Oxymoron - a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms appear in
conjunction
26. Paradox
- a statement that contradicts itself but may still be true
27. Satire
- the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize
people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary
politics and other topical issues
28. Sarcasm
- the use of irony to mock or convey contempt
29. Tone
- the attitude of the author or narrator toward the subject matter or
characters
30. Mood
- the emotional atmosphere created by the author or narrator's use of language
and descriptions.
Explanation
1.
Foreshadowing - In the movie "Elizabeth," the
director uses foreshadowing to hint at what is to come later in the story. For
example, dark lighting and ominous music may suggest something bad is about to
happen.
2.
Symbolism - Symbolism is prevalent throughout the
movie, such as the use of the Tudor rose to symbolize the union between England
and Spain.
3.
Metaphor - A metaphor is a comparison between two
things without using "like" or "as." For example, when
Elizabeth says "I have a storm in me," she uses a metaphor to convey
her inner turmoil.
4.
Simile - A simile is a comparison between two things
using "like" or "as." An example of this can be found in
the line, "Her beauty shines like the sun."
5.
Allusion - The movie "Elizabeth" alludes to
historical figures and events, such as the Spanish Armada.
6.
Irony - There are many instances of irony in the movie,
such as when Elizabeth's advisor tells her she needs a child to secure her
position. This is despite her pregnancy.
7.
Personification - Personification can be seen in lines
such as "The sea rose up to meet them," where the sea is given
human-like qualities.
8.
Hyperbole - Hyperbole is used in lines such as "I
could eat a horse," which exaggerates the character's hunger.
9.
Imagery - Imagery is used throughout the movie to
create vivid and descriptive language, such as when the camera zooms in on
Elizabeth's face to show her expression.
10. Flashback
- The movie shows Elizabeth's childhood and how she became queen.
11. Allegory
- The movie can be interpreted as an allegory to the struggles of a powerful
woman in a male-dominated society.
12. Anaphora
- Anaphora is used in the repetition of the phrase "I have no
husband" to emphasize Elizabeth's independence and autonomy.
13. Epiphora
- Epiphora is used in the repetition of the phrase "my country" to
show Elizabeth's dedication to her country.
14. Chiasmus
- Chiasmus is used in the line, "You have a woman's heart, only in the
wrong sense of the word," which reverses the sentence structure for
emphasis.
15. Antithesis
- Antithesis is used in the line, "I am not your Elizabeth," which
creates a contrast between Elizabeth's true identity and how she is perceived
by others.
16. Juxtaposition
- Juxtaposition is used when Elizabeth's lavish court is shown next to London's
poverty-stricken streets, highlighting the disparity between the rich and poor.
17. Alliteration
- Alliteration is used in the line, "Foul fiend, fetch fire," which
repeats the "f" sound.
18. Onomatopoeia
- Onomatopoeia is used in the line, "The arrow whizzed past my ear,"
where the word "whizzed" imitates the sound of an arrow in flight.
19. Euphemism
- Euphemism is used when Elizabeth is told that her advisor has been
"taken care of," which implies that he has been killed.
20. Idiom
- The movie contains many idioms, such as "the ball is in your
court," which means that the decision is up to the other person.
21. Synecdoche
- Synecdoche is used in the line, "All hands on deck," where
"hands
22. Pathetic fallacy - Pathetic fallacy is used in
the movie when the weather reflects the mood or emotions of the characters. For
example, when Elizabeth is imprisoned and awaiting execution, it rains heavily
outside.
23. Paradox
- A paradox is used in the line, "I am both a queen and a woman,"
which seems contradictory but highlights Elizabeth's struggle to balance her
personal and public roles.
24.
Oxymoron - Oxymoron is used in the line, "sweet bitterness,"
which combines two contradictory terms for emphasis.
25. Sarcasm
- Sarcasm is used in the line, "You flatter me," when Elizabeth is
insincere in response to a compliment.
26. Litotes
- Litotes is used in the line, "I am not unhappy," which is a double
negative used to convey a positive meaning.
27. Rhyme
- Rhyme is used in the movie's soundtrack to create musical quality and
emphasize certain emotions or themes.
28.
Repetition - Repetition is used in the line, "I am Elizabeth, your
queen," which emphasizes Elizabeth's authority and position.
29.
Dialogue - Dialogue is used throughout the movie to reveal characters,
advance the plot, and convey themes and ideas.
30. Tone
- Tone refers to the overall mood or feeling of the movie, which can be
serious, dramatic, emotional, or suspenseful. The director uses tone to create
a specific atmosphere and evoke certain emotions in the audience.
What moral and philosophical questions do
we learn in the movie Elizabeth by Shekhar Kapur
The movie "Elizabeth" directed by Shekhar
Kapur explores a range of moral and philosophical questions relevant to both
historical and contemporary society. These are listed below and explained
later.
1.
What is women's role in society? The movie raises questions about
women's limitations in the 16th century. It also raises questions about women's
challenges.
2.
What is the relationship between religion and politics? The movie
explores the tensions between Catholics and Protestants in 16th century
England, and how religious beliefs influence political decisions and actions.
3.
What is power cost? The movie shows how Elizabeth's rise to power comes
at a personal cost. This includes her relationships with those closest to her
and her own sense of self.
4.
What is loyalty? The movie raises questions about loyalty, and how it
can be tested in times of crisis.
5.
What is the importance of forgiveness and mercy? The movie explores
forgiveness and mercy, and how they can heal and reconcile relationships.
6.
What is the relationship between the
individual and the state? The movie raises questions about leaders'
responsibilities to their subjects, and how individuals can navigate their
loyalty to the state and their own conscience.
7.
What is human ambition? The movie explores how ambition can drive
individuals to achieve great things, but
also lead to their downfall.
8.
Overall, the movie "Elizabeth" raises complex moral and
philosophical questions that continue to be
relevant in our time.
9.
What is faith and doubt? The movie explores the characters' religious
beliefs, and how they grapple with doubt and uncertainty in their faith.
10. What
is the role of violence in politics? The movie portrays the violent and often
brutal nature of politics, and raises questions about whether violence can be
justified in power pursuit.
11. What
is the importance of diplomacy and negotiation in international relations? The
movie shows how Elizabeth's diplomatic skills are crucial in managing
relationships with other countries and avoiding war.
12. What
is the relationship between power and responsibility? The movie raises
questions about the responsibilities of those in positions of power, and the
impact their decisions can have on others.
13. What
is the importance of personal values and ethics? The movie explores how
Elizabeth's personal values and ethics shape her decisions as a leader. It also
explores how those values can be tested in difficult situations.
14. What
is the nature of courage? The movie portrays
Elizabeth and other characters' courage in the face of great adversity, and raises questions about what
it means to be truly courageous.
15. What
is identity? The movie explores how Elizabeth's identity as a woman and a queen
intersect, and how her identity is shaped by
her experiences and relationships.
16. What
is the role of history in shaping the present? The movie shows how historical
events and figures can shape the present, and raises questions about the legacy
of the past in contemporary society.
17. What
is the role of propaganda in politics? The movie portrays how propaganda can be used to manipulate public opinion and sway
political decisions. It raises questions about the ethics of using propaganda for political gain.
18. What
is the importance of education and knowledge? The movie shows how education and
knowledge are crucial for individuals to succeed in society. It also shows how
they can be used to challenge existing power structures.
19. What
is betrayal and loyalty? The movie explores betrayal and loyalty, and how they
can be used to gain or lose power.
20. What
is the role of art and culture in society? The movie portrays how art and
culture can be used to shape public opinion
and influence political decisions. It raises questions about the relationship between art and power.
21. What
is the importance of personal freedom and individual rights? The movie shows
how Elizabeth's struggle for personal freedom and autonomy is connected to the
broader struggle for individual rights and freedoms in society.
22. What
is the role of love and relationships in shaping individuals and society? The
movie explores how Elizabeth's relationships with those around her shape her as
a person and a leader. It also explores how love and relationships can be used
to gain or lose power.
Explanation
Role of propaganda in politics. Throughout the
movie, we see different characters utilizing various forms of propaganda to
influence public opinion and sway political decisions. For instance,
Elizabeth's advisors use propaganda to paint her as a powerful and strong
leader who is able to defend England against
foreign enemies. Meanwhile, her enemies portray her as a weak and illegitimate
queen who is unfit to rule. This raises important
ethical questions about the use of propaganda
in politics. Is it acceptable to use propaganda to manipulate public opinion
for political gain? Does propaganda ultimately undermine democratic ideals by
distorting the truth and preventing individuals from making informed decisions?
Role of
education and knowledge. Elizabeth's education and intellectual curiosity are portrayed as essential to her queenly success.
Her knowledge of history, languages, and diplomacy allows her to navigate
complex political situations and make informed decisions. At the same time, the
movie portrays the limitations placed on women's education in the 16th century, as well as the dangers of intellectual
curiosity in a society that views knowledge as a threat to established power
structures. This raises important questions
about education and knowledge's role in shaping society. Should education be
viewed as a fundamental right and essential to democracy? Can knowledge be used
to challenge existing power structures and bring social change?
The nature of betrayal and loyalty. Throughout the
movie, we see characters betraying each other in
order to gain or maintain power. At the same time, we see characters
remaining loyal to their friends and allies despite the risks involved. This
raises important questions about the nature of loyalty and betrayal. Is
loyalty a virtue that should be valued above
all else, or is it a weakness that can be exploited by those in power? Is
betrayal ever justified in the pursuit of a greater good, or is it always a
moral failing?
The nature of courage. Throughout the movie, we see
Elizabeth and other characters displaying
different forms of courage in the face of danger and adversity. For instance,
Elizabeth displays physical courage when she leads
her troops into battle. She also displays moral courage when she stands up to powerful men who manipulate her.
This raises important questions about the nature of courage. What does it mean to
be truly courageous? Is courage a virtue that can be developed, or is it something that is innate in certain individuals?
The nature of identity. The movie portrays how
Elizabeth's identity as a woman and a queen intersect,
and how her identity is shaped by her experiences and relationships. For
instance, we see how Elizabeth's struggles to balance her personal desires with
her public duties, and how her relationships
with men (such as Robert Dudley and Francis Walsingham) shape her identity as a woman and a queen. This
raises significant questions about identity. What factors shape our sense of identity, and how do they interact
with each other? Can we ever truly separate our personal and public identities,
or are they always interconnected?
The role of art and culture in society. Throughout
the movie, we see how art and culture can be used to shape public opinion and
influence political decisions. For instance, we see how Elizabeth's patronage
of the arts helps to establish England as a cultural and artistic center in
Europe, and how her public appearances and speeches are carefully choreographed
to convey a particular image. This raises important questions about the
relationship between art and power. Can art be used to challenge established
power structures and bring about social change, or is it always co-opted by
those in power? What is the responsibility of artists and cultural figures in
times of political upheaval and change?
Role of religion in politics. The movie depicts the
intense religious tensions of the time, with Catholics and Protestants vying
for power and influence. Elizabeth herself is portrayed as struggling to
balance her personal beliefs with the political realities of the time, as she tries to maintain a delicate religious balance in England. This raises critical
questions about the role of religion in
politics. Should religious beliefs play a role in political decision-making, or
should they be kept separate? Is it possible to create a society that is tolerant of religious diversity, or will
religious differences always lead to conflict?
Nature of power
and its effects on individuals. Throughout the movie, we see characters
pursuing power at all costs, and the ways in which
power changes them. For instance, we see how Elizabeth's rise to power
transforms her from a naive and idealistic young woman into a hardened and
calculating queen. This raises important
questions about power. Do power corrupt individuals, or do individuals seek
power because they are already corrupt? Is it possible to wield power in a
ethical and just way, or will power always be accompanied by compromise and
moral ambiguity?
The nature of history and its interpretation.
Throughout the movie, we see characters trying to
shape the historical narrative to suit their own agendas. For instance,
Elizabeth's advisors try to portray her as a powerful and effective leader,
while her enemies portray her as weak and illegitimate. This raises important questions about history. Can we ever
truly know what happened in the past, or is our understanding of history always
shaped by our own biases and perspectives? How do different interpretations of
history shape our understanding of the present and the future?
The nature of loyalty. Throughout the movie, we see
characters struggling with questions of loyalty
and betrayal. For instance, Elizabeth must navigate complex relationships with
her advisors and allies, some of whom may have their own agendas. This raises
serious questions about the nature of loyalty.
What does it mean to be loyal to someone or something? Is loyalty always a
positive trait, or can it be used to justify harmful actions? How do we balance
loyalty with other values, such as honesty and justice?
The nature of justice. Throughout the movie, we see
characters seeking justice for themselves or for
others, sometimes through violent means. For instance, Elizabeth's
enemies plot against her in the name of justice,
while Elizabeth herself must make difficult decisions about how to
punish those who have betrayed her. This raises important
questions about the nature of justice. What
does it mean to be just? Is justice always a matter of punishment, or can it be
achieved in other ways? How do we balance the need for justice with mercy and
compassion?
Leadership nature. Throughout the movie, we see
Elizabeth navigating complex political and personal relationships, making difficult decisions, and
trying to balance her personal desires with her public duties. This raises important questions about leadership. What does it
mean to be a good leader? What traits and
qualities are necessary for effective leadership? Can anyone become a leader, or
are there certain innate qualities necessary? How do leaders balance their
personal desires and needs with their followers and constituents?
The role of gender in
society. Throughout the movie, we see Elizabeth facing challenges and obstacles
because of her gender, as she navigates a male-dominated world. This raises important questions about gender roles in society.
How do societal expectations and stereotypes affect individuals' success and
leadership abilities? How do gender norms and expectations shape our
understanding of power and leadership? How can we create a more equitable
society that allows all genders to succeed and thrive?
The nature of identity. Throughout the movie, we
see characters struggling to define themselves and their identities, as they
navigate the complex political and religious landscape of England. This raises important questions about identity. What does it
mean to have an identity? How do our identities shape our beliefs and actions?
How do we navigate conflicts between different aspects of our identity, such as our religious, political, and cultural
identities?
Nature of love
and relationships. Throughout the movie, we see
Elizabeth struggling with her feelings for various characters. She tries to balance her personal desires with her political duties. This raises important questions about love and relationships.
How do we balance our personal desires with our responsibilities to others? How
do power dynamics and societal expectations affect our ability to form
meaningful and authentic relationships? Can love and duty coexist, or are they
fundamentally at odds?
The relationship between individual and collective
interests. Throughout the movie, we see characters struggling to balance their
own interests with the interests of their
groups or nations. This raises important
questions about the relationship between individual and collective interests.
How do individuals balance their own desires with communities and nations? What
responsibilities do individuals have to their communities and nations, and vice
versa? How do conflicts between individual and collective interests play out in
political and social contexts?
Of fear and
courage. Throughout the movie, we see characters facing difficult and dangerous
situations, and responding with varying degrees of fear and courage. This
raises significant questions about fear and courage. What makes someone brave?
Can courage be learned or developed, or is it innate? How do we overcome fear in order to act courageously? What role does
fear play in our decision-making, and how can we balance caution with action?
The nature of truth and deception. Throughout the
movie, we see characters lying, manipulating, and deceiving
in order to achieve their goals. This raises important questions about truth and deception.
What is the relationship between truth and power? How do we determine what is
true and what is false in a world where information is constantly manipulated
and distorted? Can we ever truly know the motives
and intentions of others, or are we always subject to deception and
manipulation? How do we balance the need for honesty and transparency with the need for strategic maneuvering and
negotiation?
The role of religion in society. Throughout the
movie, we see characters using religion to justify their actions and beliefs,
often in conflict with one another. This raises important
questions about the role of religion in
society. How do religious beliefs shape our moral and ethical frameworks? How
do conflicts between different religious beliefs and practices play out in
social and political contexts? How can individuals and societies reconcile religious differences and find common ground?
The nature of power and its corrupting influence.
Throughout the movie, we see characters struggling with the allure and danger
of power, as they seek to gain and maintain control over others. This raises important questions about power and its impact on
individuals and societies. What is the relationship between power and
corruption? Can power ever be used for good, or is it inherently corrupting? How do power dynamics affect our
relationships with others, and how can we create more equitable and just
societies?
The nature of change and progress. Throughout the
movie, we see characters pushing for change and reform, often in the face of
resistance and opposition. This raises important
questions about the nature of change and
progress. How do societies and individuals create meaningful and lasting
change? What role do resistance and opposition play in the process of change? How can we balance the
need for change with the need for stability
and continuity?
The nature of justice and punishment. Throughout
the movie, we see characters punishing others for their perceived crimes, often
in brutal and violent ways. This raises important questions about
the nature of justice and punishment. What is the relationship between
justice and punishment? How do we determine what constitutes
a just punishment for a crime? Can punishment be used for restorative
purposes, or is it always a form of retribution? How do power dynamics and
systemic injustices affect our criminal justice systems?
The nature of loyalty and betrayal. Throughout the
movie, we see characters navigating complex relationships of loyalty and betrayal, as they try to balance their personal
loyalties with their political responsibilities. This raises important questions about
the nature of loyalty and betrayal. What is the relationship between
loyalty and trust? How do we navigate conflicts between personal loyalties and
broader responsibilities to our communities and nations? How do we recover from
betrayal, and how can we rebuild trust in relationships
that have been damaged?
The nature of history and memory. Throughout the
movie, we see characters struggling to shape and control their legacies, often
in conflict with one another. This raises important
questions about the nature of history and
memory. How do we remember and interpret the past, and how do our memories
shape our understanding of the present? How do power dynamics affect the ways in which history is recorded and
remembered? Can we ever have a truly objective understanding of history,
or is it always subject to interpretation and manipulation?
The nature of gender and power. Throughout the
movie, we see Elizabeth navigating a male-dominated world, where her gender
often puts her at a disadvantage. This raises important
questions about the nature of gender and
power. How do gender dynamics affect power dynamics in societies? How do
societal expectations and stereotypes about gender limit or enhance
individuals' opportunities to exercise power?
How can we create more equitable and just societies that allow all individuals
to exercise their power and potential?
The nature of identity and belonging. Throughout
the movie, we see characters struggling to define and express their identities, often in the face of
resistance and opposition. This raises important
questions about identity and belonging. How do we define and express our
identities, and what factors shape our sense of self? How do societal norms and
expectations affect our ability to express our
identities? How can we create more inclusive and accepting societies
that allow individuals to express their
identities and feel a sense of belonging?
The nature of love and relationships. Throughout
the movie, we see characters navigating complex and often dangerous
relationships. They seek to find love and
connection in a tumultuous world. This raises important
questions about the nature of love and
relationships. What is romantic love, and what factors shape our romantic
desires and attachments? How do power dynamics affect our relationships, and
how can we create more equitable and just relationships? How can we navigate
the complexities and challenges of love and relationships, and find meaningful
connections with others?
