My aim for this project is to investigate how the values of contemporary Western society influence the ways that individuals shape their sense of morality, and how these are represented through the post-modern text Buffy, the Vampire Slayer#. I wish to examine different ideas relating to historical notions of morality, and their impact on modern ways of thinking. I then aim to evaluate how visual texts such as Buffy examine the ambiguity which exists within humanity in relation to the concepts of good and evil. I have chosen to use the medium of critical response, as this is the form which will enable me to best articulate the findings of my research.
The inspiration for the source of this project stems from our extensive study of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein in the Preliminary Extension course. Whilst researching a variety of responses to and interpretations of this text, I found my interest lay consistently in one particular aspect - the moral dilemmas which it presents in regard to the representation of the creature as intrinsically evil, and not as a result of his experiences in the world. It also raises ethical questions in relation to the use and abuse of power, a theme which is often explored in Buffy. The text Frankenstein embodies the ambiguities which are present in the nature of good versus evil. The inter-textual literary allusions, coupled with its contemporary social comments, make Buffy an excellent medium in which to examine the nature of morality and the uncertainties it presents to modern audiences. Essentially, the didactic function once served through the first person narration of the novel in Frankenstein's original context has been usurped by the visual medium of television. This is best exemplified through the messages that Buffy sends in less overt ways as it acts as a medium in which to communicate ideas about the human condition.
In order to complete my major work, there are several areas I will have to research; these include ideas pertaining to how morality is articulated in academic areas such as social science, psychology, sociology and philosophy. I will compare these to ideas of morality embedded in modern society, and more specifically, Buffy. To date, I have been researching the theories of Freidrich Nietzsche, Aristotle and Carl Jung about what drives human behaviour. I also plan to further investigate Friedrich Nietzsche, in particular his essay entitled "First Treatise: 'Good and Bad'; 'Good and Evil'", as I feel that an understanding of his principles is integral to my understanding of different moral concepts. I also intend to research Jung more thoroughly, as I believe that his treatise on archetypal patterns of human behaviour will assist in developing my understanding of what the characters in Buffy represent, as well as their intrinsic motivations. I will measure the relevance of their theories again the post-modern text, Buffy.
I have also conducted extensive research into mythological and biblical ideas of morality from a number of sources, such as the Christian Bible, as well as anthologies of Roman and Greek mythology in order to gain a firm knowledge of their historical context. I will endeavour to link these ideas to ones presented in more modern studies, especially considering their resonance in Buffy.
For the rest of this term, I plan to further research two psychological experiments conducted in the 1960s and 1970s called "The Milgram Obedience Test" and "The Stanford Prison Experiment" which were an examination of the basic moral principles of their subjects, and how these could be manipulated and changed in certain environments. My motivation for investigating these studies is that they are examples of how average, "good" people can be drawn into sadism and other such "evil" behaviours as a result of an oppressive environment. Additionally, both experiments, specifically "The Stanford Prison Experiment" display the corruptive nature of power, a theme that is both historically and presently relevant, and is often examined in Buffy. Through researching these two examples of ambiguous ethics, I hope to develop an understanding of the constantly changing meaning of "morality", and develop a thesis for my major work.
As a result of my extensive research into a number of moral teachings and theories, I will be able to compose an outline for the structure and content of my major work by the end of January.
I have attached a plan which sets out the dates I would like to complete particular aspects of my Major Work. It takes into account the need for extensive research, as well as need for preparation time for assessments such as the Viva Voce. I have allowed myself more time to thoroughly complete my work, including utilising the school holidays and periods between assessments. Although I have made it fairly clear what needs to be done when, the timetable is entirely adaptable to any complications which may arise.
Before I am able to successfully complete my Major Work, I will need to take a number of factors into consideration. The intended audience of my critical response is integral to its construction, as I will need to take care to not assume my markers know anything about Buffy, meaning I will have to thoroughly explain each reference that I use and its relevance to the construction of modern morality. This means that, although the natural audience for my work consists of a Buffy fan-base, I may have to spend more time focusing on the development of my writing until it is at a standard I feel comfortable allowing trained academics to read and scrutinise.
Additionally, I need to refine my documentation skills, so that I can utilise my journal as much as possible. So far I have been using it to record any new ideas or thoughts, as well as take notes on various texts I have been researching. However, in order to make the most of my journal, I must begin to not only document what I am doing, but why. This will help me keep clear track of the process of composing my Major Work, and clarify any changes I feel the need to make.
At this stage, the main difficulties I foresee involve the issue of time management and organization. This will involve self-discipline, and the organising of my own priorities. Thus far, I believe that I have been improving in terms in motivation and organisation, as is evident from the contents of my journal. As I am composing a written project, I have no need to collect materials, except in relation to research data. I do not have a mentor at this stage. For the moment, I plan to utilise my friends, family and teachers in order to assist me in the editing process. As the project progresses, I will assess my need for a mentor.
The commencement of the Extension Two English course has started me on an intellectual journey in which I will be given the opportunity to further improve my writing and research skills, assisting me in other H.S.C courses, and in my tertiary life. Although I am not sure yet how my journey will conclude, I feel confident that I will come out the other side more skilled, informed and better able to articulate my thoughts on the world around me.
Nothing is wrong here – you may also want to put this in your Journal.
