Questions

1. Many of us obviously watch television and movies for entertainment and know that most of the situations that happen are not ones that would occur in real life. Blakesly's article explains to us how film rhetoric works and how identification with characters is an important part of movies and TV. However, whenever we watch TV and movies, we always choose to identify with characters who are in some way similar to us--whether it be our personality, looks or the way in which they handle situations. We almost automatically have a bias towards that specific person, which is what the writers and directors want: the audience to identify with their characters. In order for the general audience to be able to relate to these characters, I feel as though it's almost necessary to use stereotypes to ensure that a wide enough audience will be able to identify. What stereotypes have you seen on television/ movies for women? Men? Do you think these stereotypes are harmful or just for fun?

2. As we've learned in almost every communications class, there are two main types of communication: verbal and nonverbal. Most people know that even when we are not directly talking to each other, we are always communicating. For example, two strangers are sitting in an empty room doing homework, they don't say a word to each other the entire time. Do you think they are still communicating with each other in a way? If you were in this situation, what nonverbal messages do you think you would be sending?

3. Woodward and Denton bring up the idea Persuasion is the most difficult when you are trying to persuade someone who is very "ego involved". When people have a strong viewpoint on something or are very stuck on a certain point of view, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to change their mind on something. When morals and ethics are involved in the situation--in many cases it is--it could almost be seen as being offensive if an opposing opinion is brought up. Have you ever had an experience where you were unable to sway someone's opinion through persuasion? Why do you think it was so difficult to do so?