Explore how perceptions of belonging and not belonging can be influenced by connections to people.
Belonging is the complex process whereby perceptions of self and social allegiances are formed. As You Like it by William Shakespeare and Chocolat directed by Lasse Hallstrom are two texts that explore how perception of belonging and not belonging can be influenced by connections to people.
William Shakespeare’s As You Like It is a play that follows exiled characters into the forest, where relationships are mended and formed under the healing role of nature. Dramatic irony is used to convey belonging when Ganymede tells Orlando in Act 3 Scene 1: “I would cure you if you would but call me Rosalind and come everyday to my cot to woo me.” The dramatic irony creates humour as everybody but Orlando knows that Ganymede is, in fact, Rosalind. In Rosalind’s lines, she tries to outline how Orlando mistakes his love for her with true belonging. Although Orlando does not know he is in contact with her, the audience is able to view how Orlando, in actuality, does find a true sense of belonging in her through his adamance in wooing Rosalind, despite Ganymede’s discouraging attempts. The dramatic irony allows the characters to establish a sense of belonging, as Rosalind is able to comprehend Orlando’s genuine feelings for her and grow an attachment toward him.
A soliloquy is used to reveal the unspoken reflections of Oliver as he refers to his brother, “I hope I shall see an end to him. For my soul – yet I know not why – hates nothing more than he… that I am altogether misprized.” It is clear in his words that Oliver is jealous of Orlando. Through his unjust actions and unnatural feelings, a wedge is forced between the two brothers, ceasing their feelings of filial connection. The soliloquy is able to prove how despite being a member of a group, it does not mean true belonging is achieved.
The notion that perceptions of belonging and not belonging