How to answer a language question

Much Ado About Nothing- Exam technique

How does the language used in these two extracts show that characters respond differently to Claudio’s treatment of Hero?

How does the language used in these two extracts show that characters respond differently to Claudio’s treatment of Hero?

My key points will be

• The language is significantly different in the two extracts.• We can use language to trace what the different characters are feeling.

I must refer to …

Extract 1• The Friar knows that Claudio I not all bad ‘?’• Benedick knows that Claudio is to blame for what has happened to Hero- ‘?’• Beatrice hates Claudio- she resents him enough to wish him dead.

Extract 2• Leonato has some affection for Claudio- ‘?’• Hero forgives him for what he did to her.• Benedick hasn’t completely forgiven Claudio, although towards the end he makes an effort because now they are part of the are family.

My Conclusion

• Refer to the title with comments on the the language.

• In extract 1 language is serious and describes the pain and suffering Claudio has caused to the family.

• This contrasts with a happier language in extract 2 which tlk about love and marriage and new starts. This shows that the characters have forgiven Claudio’s treatment of Hero now that he accepts that he slandered her and is willing to marry her cousin.