Animal Farm by George Orwell and Blacklands by Belinda Bauer Read the two extracts below and then answer both part a) and part b) - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1

In both extracts, the theme of blame is intricately portrayed through the characters' experiences and reactions.

Situations and Experiences Faced by the Characters

In Animal Farm, characters face an oppressive regime where blame is often used as a manipulative tool. For instance, when Snowball is blamed for various failures, the other animals are disoriented, highlighting how easy it is to turn collective anger against a scapegoat. Conversely, in Blacklands, the character grapples with personal guilt and the societal expectations around blame, reflecting a more psychological depth where the blame is intertwined with their personal struggles.

Reactions to Situations and Experiences

The animals in Animal Farm respond to blame with fear and obedience, often internalizing the negative feelings it engenders. In contrast, the character in Blacklands exhibits a more introspective reaction, often questioning their own role in the blame cycle and displaying vulnerability.

Language and Technique

The writers employ distinct language styles to convey the impact of blame. Orwell's use of straightforward, bleak diction underscores the harsh realities faced by the animals—phrases like 'fearful murmurs' evoke a sense of collective dread. Meanwhile, Bauer's use of rich, descriptive language and inner monologues illustrates the complex emotions surrounding blame, capturing a moment of realization as the character reflects: 'I can feel the heaviness of my choices.' In both cases, the effect of blame is powerfully depicted, but the methods used by the authors to illustrate this vary significantly, contributing to the overall themes in their respective works.