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| Course M-TH, 12:00-2:10 More 225 |
| Instructor K. Gillis-Bridges Padelford A305 543-4892 MW, 11:00-11:50 and by appointment |
| Page last updated 7/7/03 |
Essay #1: Scene Analysis
Length and Due Date
Length: 3-4 pages, formatted as described in the “Essays” portion of the syllabus
Due Date: Friday, July 11, by noon in hard copy at Padelford A-305 or via E-Submit
Assignment
For this assignment, you will analyze a single scene from Maedchen in Uniform, Not Wanted, Meshes of the Afternoon, Marianne and Juliane, or Cléo from 5 to 7, making an argument about how the scene’s formal elements (shots, angles, lighting, mise-en-scene, editing, camera movement) function to explore themes, establish key motifs or symbols, construct characters and the relationships between them, or communicate ideologies.
You may select any scene you wish, even one you have already discussed in a presentation.
Guidelines
1) The key to the scene analysis assignment is focus. You will need to concentrate on how one or two formal elements perform a particular function. A successful essay will pose a clear, defendable argument regarding the function of the scene’s formal elements and develop that argument over the course of the essay. Rather than offering a catalogue of your observations on the scene’s formal elements, the essay will make an argument about those elements' function.
2) Remember that you are writing to an audience who has viewed the films. Therefore, you do not need to summarize the plot. Instead, you should incorporate summary, paraphrase, quotation, or description of images into an analysis. Each reference to the film should support your argument.
3) Do not forget the rich discussion that has taken place on the electronic bulletin board. A review of the postings on a particular film may help you to ask key questions and shape your analysis.
4) When describing a film's plot or stylistic techniques, use the present tense (for example, "Maneula plays the role of Don Carlos," or "Sally arguably receives a ‘speeding’ ticket for having sex").
5) If you’re having difficulty devising an approach to the essay, or if you want to discuss ideas-in-progress, come to my office hours or email me to set up an appointment.
Grading
Follow this link to view the grading rubric I will use to evaluate the essay. Late essays will receive a 10-point deduction per day late, including weekends.