Rhetorical questions are one of the first language techniques we are exposed to in our early years of writing and which let’s be honest, the one we always remember and fall back on. However, in VCE Language Analysis it is expected to analyse it a *little* more deeply than, ‘it makes the audience think‘. Is there anything necessarily wrong with this statement? No. But is the statement achieving the highest marks because of an in depth analysis? Also, no. So how do we give our most reliable and identifiable language technique the credit it deserves?
Note: Do not underestimate the more ‘simple’ language techniques, when analysed well it is a powerful tool in writing; used to engage readers, provoke thought, or emphasize a point. Unlike direct questions, rhetorical questions do not require an answer; instead, they encourage the reader to reflect on the issue at hand. In essay writing, analysing rhetorical questions can deepen your understanding of the text and enhance your ability to critique the author’s intent.
Step 1: Identify the Rhetorical Question- Station Eleven
A rhetorical question is a question posed for effect, not because the writer expects an answer, but because they want the reader to consider the implications or the underlying message. These questions often carry a persuasive tone, pushing the reader to think about the topic in relation the the novels ideas. These questions often appear at key moments in the text, such as at the beginning of a paragraph, at the conclusion, or when the author is making a significant point.
In Emily St John Mandel’s novel Station Eleven, the rhetorical question“What was it like to live in a world where almost everyone else was dead?” highlights the profound isolation and loss experienced after the pandemic. We know it’s not meant to be answered but used as a tool of reflection, instead of stating this we can explore it through tone instead. The contemplative tone invites readers to consider the gravity of the situation, making the question impactful and memorable as it underscores the novel’s themes of survival and memory.
Step 2: Analyse the Purpose- Things Fall Apart
Consider why the author chose to use this device. What effect does the rhetorical question have on the reader? Does it make the argument more persuasive? Does it highlight a contradiction or an irony?
Ask yourself:
What ideas is the author trying to emphasize?
How does the question influence the audience’s thoughts or positioning?
Is the rhetorical question implying to a particular conclusion or action?
In Things Fall Apart, Okonkwo’s rhetorical question, “How can he when he has nothing but his own strength?”, relates to the ideas of colonialism, masculinity and free will. The question emphasizes his inner conflict and despair, highlighting the futility of his efforts to uphold traditional values in the face of colonialism. Chinua Achebe effectively positions the audience in grasping the cultural clash and the individual’s powerlessness against inevitable change.
“Things Fall Apart”- Chinua Achebe
“Station Eleven”- Emily St. John Mandel
Step 3: Examine the Context – Pride & Prejudice
Context is crucial when analysing rhetorical questions. Look at the surrounding sentences or paragraphs to understand how the rhetorical question fits into the broader argument. Is it used to introduce a new idea, to reinforce a previous point, or to transition between arguments?
In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet, often challenges societal norms and expectations at the time. After Mr. Darcy’s initial proposal, which is riddled with pride and condescension, Elizabeth confronts positioning him with, “Could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?” This rhetorical question is used to challenge Mr. Darcy’s prejudices and highlight the absurdity of his expectations. It fits into the broader context about societal class and status in the Georgian Era, reinforcing Elizabeth’s stance against Mr. Darcy’s condescending view of her family. Once again, the question doesn’t seek an answer but instead serves to criticize Darcy’s arrogance and to assert Elizabeth’s self-respect and principles, marking a turning point in their relationship.
Step 4: Consider the Tone and Audience- We Have Always Lived in a Castle
The tone of a rhetorical question can vary depending on the author’s intent. It might be sarcastic, contemplative, accusatory, or even hopeful. The tone can significantly impact how the reader interprets the question and the surrounding content. Additionally, consider the audience. How might different readers react to the rhetorical question? Does it align with their values or challenge their beliefs?
In Shirley Jackson’s We Have Always Lived in the Castle, the tone is eerie and unsettling, reflecting the isolated and disturbed lives of the Blackwood sisters, Merricat and Constance. The novel often uses rhetorical questions to convey Merricat’s strange and fragmented thoughts. At one point, Merricat reflects on her life and asks herself, “Why should I care for people who have never cared about me?” Capturing the novel’s dark and alienated tone, emphasizing Merricat’s deep resentment and detachment from the world outside her family. She desires to protect her sister and their isolated existence, highlighting the psychological barriers she has built against the outside world.
Step 5: VCE Language Analysis Sentence Structures for Rhetorical Questions
Now that we know how to identify, understand the effect and analyse. How do we write our ideas into sentences to convey the meaning? Utilising analytical verbs is a vital and yet again simple method of improving our meaning and conveying our ideas.
Have a go writing a rhetorical questions analysis using one of the following sentence starters:
The …… tone implies the idea of ……, in order for the audience to (analytical verb + analysis) ……
Through Author/Director established context of ….. it positions the reader to (analytical verb + analysis) …..
The use of the rhetorical question, (“insert quote”) …… aims to instil a sense of XYZ (give 3 examples as it’s an effective use of power of 3) in the reader …..
vce language analysis rhetorical question unit 4 new study design
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