Clueless and Emma
How does the transformation of Austen's Mr.Elton into Heckerling's emphasize the values and context of each text?There are basic similarities in the values between the two societies of Clueless and Emma in social level, human relationships and image. However, the context is different, because of the times that the texts are based on. Emma by Jane Austen is set in 19th Century England, as opposed to Clueless which is in Beverly Hills USA in the 20th century. Mr. Elton's status is "without low connections" and is acceptable due to his profession. Similarly, Elton in Clueless has a high status- that is determined by his wealth and popularity as opposed to profession. But both realise, that to have a high social status and reputation is important. Mr. Elton's values lie in his intelligence, social skills and status within the society of Highbury. These values are transformed in Clueless, into values such as physical appearance, wealth and which determine Elton's status In the film Clueless, from the beginning the viewer realises the tone is fast -paced and hectic. Heckerling uses techniques such as visuals, careful choice of music and camera shots to convey this. Clueless moves significantly faster then Emma. The world of the
Both Elton and Mr. Elton are searching for a companion in the film and the novel. However, their method of courtship differs due to the values of the time. Elton is much more direct in his mannerisms then Mr.Elton. Although Elton takes a more subtle approach, he expresses his desires very clearly and is not embarrassed or fazed by his own directness. Here, Heckerling shows the confidence and spoilt nature of teenage kids. This is evident when he often shows affection for Cher in the classroom, and when he demands to take Cher home. Although he is rejected by Cher, he appears more laid back and casual about it then Mr. Elton in Emma. Although Mr Elton does not directly tell her until the proposal scene, this is because of the values of the time. Mr Elton is described as a gentleman, and it was good manners and social etiquette to court a woman for some time before proposing. In the portrait scene, when Emma suggests painting Harriet's portrait we see that Elton is unmistakably in love with Emma even though Emma believes that Elton is interested in Harriet. The reader sees that Elton's lavish compliments and his close study of Emma while she is painting is to show his love for her. "Mr Elton fidgeting behind her and watching every touch.." This portrait scene is transformed into the photograph scene in Clueless. Here, is the first time that the viewer sees that Elton has a slight interest in Cher. Though it is subtle, it is still evident through Elton's facial expressions and actions. The viewer sees an intimate shot of Dionne and Murray, while it pans across to Elton, an
Some common words found in the essay are:
Elton Clueless, Elton Tai, Elton Elton, Elton Harriet, MrElton Elton, Emma Elton, Hills USA, Clueless Emma, MrElton Heckerling's, Elton Elton's, elton's status, elton elton, elton tai, determined wealth popularity, wealth popularity, determined wealth, low connections, social status, society highbury, values society, values elton,
Approximate Word count = 1066
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
|