HDM

 1) Write an analysis of the episode - using your notes from the screening in class. Make specific, detailed reference to moments in the text using media terminology (e.g. media language - camera shots and movement, editing, diegetic/non-diegetic sound, mise-en-scene etc.)

You can currently watch His Dark Materials on BBC iPlayer here.

Camerawork, editing and sound: 

Mise-en-scene:

Narrative and genre: 

You can access our notes from the close-textual analysis in a previous class here - you'll need your Greenford Google login to open this.

2) How does His Dark Materials fit the conventions of the fantasy TV genre?

By employing many standard conventions, including magical creatures, alternate universes, and epic storylines with themes of power and identity.

3) Applying Propp's character theory, what character roles do some of the main characters in His Dark Materials fit into? 

• Hero:

  Lyra is the protagonist and central figure, embarking on a quest and facing numerous challenges.
• Villain:

  Lord Asriel's motivations and actions are often at odds with Lyra's quest, making him the primary antagonist.
• False Heroes:

  • Lord Balthora (Scourge) initially appears as an ally, but his actions are ultimately selfish and manipulative.
  • Mrs. Coulter initially seems caring and helpful, but her true intentions are revealed to be more sinister.

4) What enigma and action codes (Barthes) can you find in His Dark Materials? Make specific, detailed reference to the text using media terminology (e.g. media language - camera shots, diegetic/non-diegetic sound, mise-en-scene etc.)

the enigma code is present in the many mysteries surrounding the books' characters and events, such as the secrets of the Dust and the nature of the Authority. The action code is represented by the sequential events that propel the narrative forward, such as Lyra's journey to the Arctic and the various battles and alliances she forms. 

5) What examples of binary opposition (Levi-Strauss) can you find in His Dark Materials? How do these create narrative or drama for the audience? You can find reminder notes on all these narrative theories here - just scroll down to narrative. 

• Order vs. Chaos:

  The world of His Dark Materials is presented as a delicate balance between order and chaos. The Authority attempts to maintain order through laws and control, while the rebels, including characters like Lyra, actively seek to disrupt and challenge this order, leading to a sense of chaos. 
• Science vs. Religion:

  The series highlights the tension between scientific inquiry and religious belief. The Authority, often associated with the Church of the Subtle, relies on religious dogma and traditional beliefs, while characters like Lyra and her friends embrace science and questioning as a path to understanding the world. 
• Humans vs. Daemons:

  Humans and their daemons (animal counterparts) are presented as two aspects of a whole. This is further emphasized by the contrasting nature of the characters and their roles within the world. 
• Good vs. Evil:

  The series explores the complexities of good and evil, challenging the simple binary. The Church is portrayed as evil because it controls people and persecutes dissent. However, the rebellion, while fighting for freedom, is not necessarily pure good either. This complicates the traditional good vs. evil narrative. 
• Masculine vs. Feminine:

  The characters' roles and the way they are portrayed in His Dark Materials also reflect a binary opposition between masculine and feminine traits, which can also be seen as a reflection of gender roles within the stories.