Merlin Exam Answer

In the Merlin clip shown, editing, camera, sound and mise en scene is used to create a clear divide in the representation of class difference.

The use of the close up camera shot is Merlin is to further emphasize the difference of class in the clip. It is used when Merlin is dropping some kind of small parcel off  to the room whereby the women we assume has greater power enters. The close up is to show the scared and shocked facial expressions of Merlin. Furthermore it is to show the divide in lower and upper class as, Merlin wouldn't react in this way if he was the same class as the lady.

It is interesting how the camera is mostly on Merlin throughout the clip. The reason this subverts away from stereotypes is that we would associate the upper class to have more of the power due to their class status. This also makes the audience certain that he is the protagonist and also that class shouldn't be a difference between humans.

Another shot used is a high angle point of view shot to show Arthur looking down on Merlin. This is used when Arthur has just beaten Merlin in a fight. The shot is used to show the 'power' Arthur has and how he represents the upper class compared to the lower-class. The lower class are therefore seen as 'vulnerable' and 'weak'.

The use of costume of the lower class in the village and also Merlin has a 'scruffy' look to it showing how they have little money to afford the clothes that the upper class have and gain sympathy towards them. This is comparable to the the woman in the very first part of the opening scene who wears a silk blue dress.  The lady looks extremely presentable in contrast to the lower class.

The setting is an important feature of the representation of the lower class. The 'scrappy' and 'dirty' conditions show how they live their lives and emphasise the difference compared to the 'cleanest' of the upper class. The fact that the lower class live in this way represents how they are treated in society compared to the 'snobby' upper class living conditions.

The order of narrative is very interesting as it shows how the lower class is seen as the 'failing' figure in society. From the beginning of the clip to the end we constantly see how lower class continues to fail in everything they do and are over ruled by other classes in society.

The dialogue by Merlin (the protagonist) shows the rebellious side of the lower class which we wouldn't expect when he speaks to Arthur. The fact Arthur is upper class he uses patronising language choices to show his authority of Merlin. However, this does not work and breaks the stereotypes we expect Merlin and the lower class to be like.