Unseen Prose - Initial observations

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Instructions

The last aspect of the first reading of a passage involves making decisions about the broad framework, context and scope of the extract.
Based on the first reading note down your initial observations.

Your first observations of this passage would probably include the following:

  • Third person, omniscient narrator
  • Rural setting
  • Character portrait of a farmer matching many stereotypes in terms of dress and physical appearance but hints at greater complexity
  • Mixture of tones – neutral; amused; sympathetic; satirical; puzzlement at apparent contradictions.

A list such as this one would indicate that you had read with understanding and appreciation and would be ready for the more detailed work required at Stage 2.