mathslover said:
hey hey,
i need to know what the difference is between a value and a theme.. in particular relation to emma and clueless.
would things such as consumerism and popularity be considered as themes as well as values, or just values?
any help will be appreicated thankyou : ]
'Themes' is a term that should not be used in the HSC context (if you can avoid it) because it has been covered in English syllabuses from as early as stage 4 and 5 (junior high school ie Year 7-10). Essentially about half the state use it in their hsc responses because it has been ingrained in their psyche, and normally is not as sophisticated/overused compared to other synonyms ie 'issues' and 'ideas'.
Unfortunately in the HSC context, buzzwords now prevail and impression can contribute significantly to the marks that are awarded.
'Values and attitudes' are probably the most reliable term/s that should be employed because it contributes to a holistic vision. Values is something that is 'valued' by for eg the Regency era society in Emma including economic stability and classism.
Attitudes is just the 'attitude' of society towards such values for eg arrogance (initially in the protagonist of Emma Woodhouse) and condescension (the gentry's view of the yeomanry). When values and attitudes are combined, we get a complete sense of that society.
In Heckerling's context consumerism and popularity (probably not the strongest terms, although a cogent argument would defeat that) are both 'values' of society and themes. I believe using the dichotomy of universal vs. context-specific values might benefit you most though.
