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

Explore the shipway in which Sheriff presents the lineament of StanhopeHow is the dear young boy? Still inebriety similar a fish, as usual? The theatrical role of Stanhope is introduced by braw in Act 1, without him actually making an appearance. Osborne shows respect to Stanhope and is clearly wild and annoyed by the way fearless is dismissive of Stanhopes ability. Already, we ar presented with twain contrasting views of Stanhope. By considering the way in which both characters plow him, we can address the question of whether or non Stanhope possesses heroic qualities.The nobble depicts the horror of trench warf be it gives us an insight into what life is resembling in the war, the real numberity of the war and the reality of heroism. Heroism is to show not bad(p) courage and bravery. A lot of men in the war sign up because when the war was over they necessitateed to be retardn as a hero. None of these men had any idea about the reality of the perfidious condition s in the trenches. R.C Sheriff penuryed to dispel the myths about the horrors of the war and address how real men survived the heroic men. In this essay, I am going to go Act 1 and Act 2, scene 2. I will meet 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 cushion on the audience. It builds up tension for stanhopes arrival and provides the audience with valuable education about the character of Stanhope. braw shows disrespect towards Stanhope, for the simple reason that he likes a good drink. Osborne is indignant over these comments and continually informs Hardy of his dedication, loyalty and perseverance. Oh hes a good confrere Hardy says this in a patronising manner, dismissing his abilities as a leader. He does not share the same respect merely ins tead uses Stanhopes value as an amusement. He was particularly amused at the fact that Stanhope at sea his leave. He put it down to the reason that he did not want to show his family the drunkard state he was in.Maybe, the actual reason is that heis so loyal to his men that he does not want to throw overboard them. Osborne repeatedly defends Stanhope and emphasises the fact that he had seen him suffering all day, physically and mentally, whence out on duty all night. Young Stanhope goes on stir upy it, day in and day out This comment recognises Stanhopes prime(prenominal) of loyalty, commitment and overwhelming mental strength. It is for these qualities that could describe 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 own opinion on the character of Stanhope.In Act 1, scene 1, Sher iff presents the audience with another characters opinion of Stanhope. We can see that Raleigh is very enthusiastic and keen to talk about Stanhope. outstanding devices are used to create an alternative perspective if Stanhope.Osborne Dyou make out himRaleigh Yes, rather Osborne Hes a splendid chapRaleigh Isnt he?His reactions to Osbornes comments show that he passing respects Stanhope and is in total 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 terrific. This shows his excitement and wonder at macrocosm 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 older student.In Act 2, scene 2, Hibbert is taken aback when Stanhope admits to suffering from neuralgia also.Hibbert This neuralgia of mine. Im odiously sorry. Im afraid I cant stick i t any longerStanhope I know its rotten isnt it. Ive got it like hellHibbert (taken aback) you have?In this scene we do not know whether Stanhope is actually suffering from neuralgia. However, it seems apparent to believe that he is from the earlier discussion of hoe Stanhope deals with pain. Hibbert is using this illness as an rationalize 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 jeopardise the lives of others around him.Hibbert Ill go salutary along now, I think-Stanhope (quietly) youre going to stay here.Stanhope shows control and delegacy by saying this. He stands his ground and is firm in his words, but at the same time is calm and composed. This shows his natural skill as a leader and strength to keep his men together. In this sense datum Stanhope can be described as showing heroic qualities, faithfulness an d compassionate cognise 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 fine comradeship, born leader skills and compassionate love to all in his battalion. Although Stanhope likes a good drink his weaknesses are unmarked by his dedication, loyalty and perseverance. Stanhope has suffered the dreadful conditions of trench warfare but noneffervescent goes on sticking it, month in, month out. In the look of his men there isnt a man to touch him.