Journeys End †R.C.Sherriff †“Character of Stanhope” Essay

Explore the commissions in which Sheriff presents the character of StanhopeHow is the full young boy? Still potableing like a fish, as usual? The character of Stanhope is introduced by courageous in move custodyt 1, without him very making an appearance. Osborne shows consider to Stanhope and is clearly angry and annoyed by the way Hardy is dismissive of Stanhopes ability. Already, we are presented with two contrasting views of Stanhope. By considering the way in which both characters discuss him, we can traverse the indecision of whether or not Stanhope possesses heroic qualities.The play depicts the horror of trench assert of struggle it gives us an insight into what life is like in the war, the reality of the war and the reality of heroism. Heroism is to show great courage and bravery. A potbelly of men in the war signed up because when the war was over they wanted to be seen as a hero. None of these men had any idea about the reality of the treacherous conditions in the trenches. R.C Sheriff wanted to rouse the myths about the horrors of the war and address how real men survived the heroic men. In this essay, I am going to analyse typify 1 and Act 2, motion-picture show 2. I will look at the ways in which Sheriff uses language, stage directions and dramatic devices to present the character of Stanhope and I will address the question as to whether or not Stanhope possesses heroic qualities.In Act 1, the character of Stanhope is introduced. This has a major impact on the audition. It builds up focus for stanhopes arrival and provides the audience with valuable information about the character of Stanhope. Hardy shows disrespect towards Stanhope, for the simple reason that he likes a good drink. Osborne is indignant over these comments and continu eachy informs Hardy of his dedication, loyalty and perseverance. Oh hes a good chap Hardy says this in a shop at manner, dismissing his abilities as a leader. He does not share the same respect b ut instead uses Stanhopes values as an amusement. He was particularly amused at the fact that Stanhope missed his leave. He put it bundle to the reason that he did not want to show his family the drunkard state he was in.Maybe, the actual reason is that he is so loyal to his men that he does not want to abandon them. Osborne repeatedly defends Stanhope and emphasises the fact that he had seen him suffering all twenty-four hours, physically and intellectually, thusly out on responsibility all night. Young Stanhope goes on sticking it, day in and day out This comment recognises Stanhopes quality of loyalty, commitment and overwhelming mental military unit. It is for these qualities that could divulge Stanhope as a hero. Sheriffs purpose of including this scene in the play is to present the audience with two contrasting views of Stanhope. By doing this, he heightens the eager anticipation and curiosity. The audience are left to develop their let opinion on the character of Stanhope.In Act 1, scene 1, Sheriff presents the audience with another characters opinion of Stanhope. We can see that capital of North Carolina is very anxious and keen to talk about Stanhope. Dramatic devices are used to draw an alternative perspective if Stanhope.Osborne Dyou know himRaleigh Yes, rather Osborne Hes a splendid chapRaleigh Isnt he?His reactions to Osbornes comments show that he highly respects Stanhope and is in entireness awe of him. He looks up to Stanhope as a kind-of role model. He looked splendid in it, Raleighs language used to describe Stanhope suggests that he worships him. He uses words like splendid and amazing and majestic. This shows his excitement and wonder at being placed under his command. The scene on a whole shows Stanhope as a hero figure. Raleigh is in awe of him like a school boy idolises an erstwhile(a) student.In Act 2, scene 2, Hibbert is taken aback when Stanhope admits to suffering from neuralgia also.Hibbert This neuralgia of mine. Im awfully sorry. Im unnerved I cant stick it any longerStanhope I know its rotten isnt it. Ive got it like glareHibbert (taken aback) you have?In this scene we do not know whether Stanhope is genuinely suffering from neuralgia. However, it seems apparent to believe that he is from the earlier discussion of till Stanhope deals with pain. Hibbert is using this illness as an salve to leave. If Stanhope is suffering from neuralgia too, then why should one leave and not the other? Stanhope takes away Hibberts excuse to leave- the fear of life the trenches. Stanhope does not want one man to be the lives of others around him.Hibbert Ill go right along now, I think-Stanhope (quietly) youre going to stay here.Stanhope shows control and authority by saying this. He stands his ground and is firm in his words, but at the same cadence is calm and composed. This shows his natural skill as a leader and strength to keep his men together. In this sense Stanhope can be set forth as showing heroic qualities, fidelity and compassionate love to all under his command.With the use of dramatic devices, the character of Stanhope is introduced to the audience. Throughout the play, Sheriff continually uses these techniques and we are left feeling totally in awe of Stanhopes pretty comradeship, born leader skills and compassionate love to all in his battalion. Although Stanhope likes a good drink his weaknesses are overlooked by his dedication, loyalty and perseverance. Stanhope has suffered the nasty conditions of trench warfare but still goes on sticking it, month in, month out. In the eyes of his men there isnt a man to touch him.