The Language

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-	== Group 6 – The Language ==	+	== Group 6 - The Language ==
		+	Group 6 – The Language
	Obviously, Richardson’s novel was written for a different time and audience than contemporary readers. Map out the key divergences from modern literary tastes and modes and explain how they relate to both the plot and the narrative perspective of the novel.		Obviously, Richardson’s novel was written for a different time and audience than contemporary readers. Map out the key divergences from modern literary tastes and modes and explain how they relate to both the plot and the narrative perspective of the novel.
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		+	Characterization
		+	When writing Wacousta in 1832 Paris, John Richardson had the advantage of his combined Odawa and British roots in which to approach the novel. However, the narrative perspective that Richardson uses to present Wacousta represents the divide between the two groups during the events of the novel. With the use of inhumane description and characterization, Richardson presents the Aboriginal characters in a negative and unprofessional way in comparison to the British. Racist language is depicted in the descriptions of the main protagonist Wacousta, who is introduced to the novel as a “gigantic warrior” shouting “savage rage” (152). Further discrimination of Aboriginal peoples can be noted throughout the novel, through the recurrent addressing of their people as “the Indians” as well as “savages.” Richardson uses this discriminatory language successfully to make the members of the Ottawas appear animalistic, and furthermore inferior to the higher class British. On the other hand, mature terms such as “[the soldier’s] long habits of discipline,” (371) and “the fall of their brave leader” (372) are used to distinguish the British, while strengthening and professionalizing their image. The popular British family of Captain de Haldimar is made to be pitied many times throughout the novel; the emotional struggles in which children Clara and Frederick ensue along with the death of their mother Clara humanizes the family, as well as creates the possibility of emotionally affecting readers by causing them to feel a connection to these characters. Richardsons narration makes it more difficult for readers to connect with the “Indian” characters considering how strongly they lack emotional intelligence. These characters receive more aggressive descriptions such as “dark and ferocious warrior,” (264) while British characters are found with much warmer descriptions, such as “all that is dear, tender, and affectionate” (108). Overall, Richardson uses characterization to manipulate the portrayal of the Aboriginal peoples versus the British.

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Revision as of 13:48, 14 June 2020

Group 6 - The Language

Group 6 – The Language Obviously, Richardson’s novel was written for a different time and audience than contemporary readers. Map out the key divergences from modern literary tastes and modes and explain how they relate to both the plot and the narrative perspective of the novel.

Characterization When writing Wacousta in 1832 Paris, John Richardson had the advantage of his combined Odawa and British roots in which to approach the novel. However, the narrative perspective that Richardson uses to present Wacousta represents the divide between the two groups during the events of the novel. With the use of inhumane description and characterization, Richardson presents the Aboriginal characters in a negative and unprofessional way in comparison to the British. Racist language is depicted in the descriptions of the main protagonist Wacousta, who is introduced to the novel as a “gigantic warrior” shouting “savage rage” (152). Further discrimination of Aboriginal peoples can be noted throughout the novel, through the recurrent addressing of their people as “the Indians” as well as “savages.” Richardson uses this discriminatory language successfully to make the members of the Ottawas appear animalistic, and furthermore inferior to the higher class British. On the other hand, mature terms such as “[the soldier’s] long habits of discipline,” (371) and “the fall of their brave leader” (372) are used to distinguish the British, while strengthening and professionalizing their image. The popular British family of Captain de Haldimar is made to be pitied many times throughout the novel; the emotional struggles in which children Clara and Frederick ensue along with the death of their mother Clara humanizes the family, as well as creates the possibility of emotionally affecting readers by causing them to feel a connection to these characters. Richardsons narration makes it more difficult for readers to connect with the “Indian” characters considering how strongly they lack emotional intelligence. These characters receive more aggressive descriptions such as “dark and ferocious warrior,” (264) while British characters are found with much warmer descriptions, such as “all that is dear, tender, and affectionate” (108). Overall, Richardson uses characterization to manipulate the portrayal of the Aboriginal peoples versus the British.