Look At The Different Dramatic Techniques Which Essay Example

for Zulema, considering she is the sole individual with whom she interacts.

The person whom Doris admired apart from others was her late husband, Wilfred. Although she loved him, during her monologue, she reveals a different perspective where she mentions that he never finished anything, just like the uncompleted task of growing mushrooms in the cellar. She believed that a child could have solved this issue. She stated, "A kiddy'd've solved all that."

The sole companion in Doris's life was her stillborn baby, which she was hurt and ashamed about when the midwife declared that it wasn't worthy of a name. It is evident that Doris has faced misfortune, leading to her solitude, compounded by the absence of children to take care of her. This garners empathy from the audience, who wish she had offspring. Bennett's choice of words, including colloquialisms and Lancashire dialect evokes memories of relatable grandmothers, intensifying the audience's compassion towards Doris, while also adding comedy to her monologue. Her isolation in her home, with only occasional visits from her dictatorial helper Zulema, further stimulates sympathy for Doris.

Doris perceives that she lacks permission to undertake anything, leading her to feel powerless. The audience is aware of her admiration for the carpet sweeper, but she is not even authorized to use it. Someone cautions her by saying, "Doris, I don't want to catch you handling the Ewbank."

The Ewbank is off-limits, which brings to mind school rules. This suggests that Zulema is imposing rules on Doris even in her own home. This behavior not only comes off as condescending, but it also highlights Zulema's domination over Doris, leaving her feeling inadequate. Despite her own sense of

identity, as evidenced by her refusal of help toward the end of the play, Doris's bravery shines through.

Despite being offered help and the option to go to Stafford House, Doris insists that she is fine and would rather die in her own home as an individual. This denial of help highlights her clear need for it. Doris has not had freedom for some time and feels like a stranger in her community, stating that she doesn't know anyone around anymore. This signifies a change in society that has left her feeling trapped and disconnected from the pleasant life she once knew where everyone knew each other.

The title "A cream cracker under the settee" plays a crucial role in the monologue, with the cream cracker itself holding significance. Doris feels empowered upon finding it, despite knowing that reporting Zulema to social services would be futile. Being "under the settee" suggests being out of sight and out of mind, symbolizing the position of the elderly in society and how Doris is seen. The cracker also represents Doris's state of mind, as it signifies being "crackers" or not all there. Additionally, the cracker's fragility further reflects Doris's own vulnerability.

Doris's current life is represented by the fact that crackers are uninteresting and tasteless.