Questions on The Elephant Man

The screenplay of the film was based on Frederick Treves’ The Elephant Man and Other Reminiscences and Ashley Montague’s book which contains a chapter on the life of John Merrick.As you watch the film, you should take notes on the topics listed below to prepare for our discussion. Each night, you are to write a reflection on what you saw that day in class. In this reflection, you might focus on the following:•write on what struck you most about that day’s viewing and why you think that element struck you;•you might focus on a character or on a relationship like Bytes or Treves;•you might focus on one particular element in the film like the music or the black and white cinematography;•you might make a more general observation about the film’s theme. •you might consider in your reflection, what does John Merrick "mean" to the characters in the film: to Bytes? to Treves? to Mrs. Kendall? to Mr. Garr Comm? to the nurses?

to the hospital board

to the Princess of Wales/Queen Victoria?

At the end of our viewing, we will use these notes and reflections as a basis for our class discussion. Each reflection should be two pages typed. You should think about the point you want to make, and then develop that point with organized detail.

Please jot down questions you have on any aspect of the film.

Topics to consider:

1) The film only gradually reveals Merrick’s appearance. What is the effect of the gradual revelation of Merrick’s physical appearance? Why do you think the filmmaker chose to reveal Merrick this way?

2) How does the film characterize Treves? What kind of man is he? Why is he interested in the Elephant Man at first? Does the reason for his interest change?

3) The film sets up a comparison/contrast between Bytes and Treves. What are some of the similarities between the two men in their relation to the Elephant Man?

4) Does Treves experience any conflicts? What is the most important conflict he faces? How does he resolve the conflict?

5) What struck you most about Treves? Why do you think this element struck you?

6) How does the film characterize Merrick? His character emerges slowly, so you should keep notes on him before you answer.

7) What struck you most about Merrick? Why do you think this element struck you?

8) What does the film establish as the major conflict?

9) How does the film characterize Mrs. Kendall? Why do you think she is in the movie?

10) What does the film establish as the theme?

11) What is the effect of the setting of the film?

12) What is the effect of the music?

13) What is the effect of the atmosphere that is created? The black and white cinematography?

Be sure to make any additional notes you think are important.