Conversation+between+Poncia+and+Bernarda

> o “I don’t //believe// it—it is so!” (253) > o “There are things we cannot and should not think. I give orders” (251) > o Bernarda suggests that she ignores what that which disagrees with her beliefs. > o Reenforces her perception that her beliefs are truth. > o Bernarda’s insistence on her truth being the only acceptable truth gives her authority. Only Adela maintains the audacity to not be submissive to Bernarda’s tyranny. > · Illustrates Poncia’s relative inferiority despite being a voice of reason. > o “It’s never wise to let an outsider into the family circle.” (251) > o “I’m not making accusations, Bernarda…Open your eyes.” (252) > o Despite working for the household for thirty years, Bernarda still considers Poncia an outsider. > o Highlights Poncia’s difference in social standing as a maid as well as Bernarda’s rejection of the outside world. > o Poncia’s awareness is a foil to Bernarda’s blindness. > · Reveals Bernarda’s true intention in allowing Angutias’ marriage to Pepe. > o “We must get (Pepe) far away from here.” (251) > o Bernarda views Pepe as a threat to her authority. By marrying off Angustias, she eliminates him as a rival at the cost of one daughter.
 * // Importance of this scene: //**
 * Portrays Bernarda’s stubborn dominance, she blinds herself to truth.

**//Justification for Sounds// //Used://** The conversation between Poncia and Bernarda starts as a discussion between a maid and her employer; however, the characters become more passionate and hostile, shown through how they speak as well as additional sound effects: · Slamming of cane at beginning of conversation (BERNARDA (…) //strikes the floor with her cane//) o Bernarda still feels in control, but is frustrated and uses aggression to cope with this emotion. · Knuckle cracking sounds at “I must use a firm hand with them” (251) reflect Bernarda’s authority, preparedness for confrontation. · Sound of chair scooting when Bernarda ([//gets//] //up)// (252), conveys written stage direction and rising abruptly, emphasizing her dominance. · At first, Poncia is sycophantic towards Bernarda: “Of course. We must get him far away from here. Good thinking!” (251) · Poncia replies quickly when agreeing with Bernarda, conveying Poncia’s desire to support Bernarda · Delay when Poncia disagrees with Bernarda; shows fear of Bernarda’s displeasure when contradicted · Quicker, more passionate responses from Poncia as conversation wears on, as she is upset by Bernarda’s refusal to listen to her and Bernarda’s insults: “you know very well what you come from” (253) o Poncia, initially speaks into pillow facing away from crowd; turns towards crowd at “Bernarda, something monstrous is happening” (253) o Poncia's voice becomes clearer; more assertive o Another scooting chair sound here: conveys that Poncia rises, attempting to emulate Bernarda’s status. o Quicker replies by Poncia, even to contradict Bernarda, illustrate her anger towards Bernarda · Barking dog sound effect starts from where Bernarda: (//Loudly//) “And I would do it a thousand times again!” o Bernarda creates further tension between Poncia and herself through noise o Barking reflects pressure between characters; even during pause on page 254, barking continues reflecting the continued tension in the conversation.

Word Count: 499