Binary Opposites - Levi Strauss



 Everyone understands the world in terms of opposites. It is these opposites that conflict with one another and drive a narrative forward. 

Good vs Evil

Corruption vs Purity

Emotion vs Thought

Monogamy vs Adultery


Don’t be too literal (Avengers vs Thanos)

You need to think what the characters represent, what are the themes.


Case Study - Harry Potter series

The Harry Potter series features many binary opposites that conflict with one another and drive the narrative forward. Here are just a few;

Good vs Evil: It is pretty clear who the villains are and what they represent. They are portrayed wearing black clothes, performing evil deeds and constantly acting in opposition to the antagonists. Ultimately the 'good guys' win, it is clear the message being told as it is very common in mainstream film. 

Courage vs Cowardice: This is another pair of opposites at work. It is very cleat that courage is a main theme of the series, even one of the four houses that the characters are sorted into prize bravery above all else. Courage is seen in most of the antagonists, and it is contrasted with the cowardice of others such as Malfoy Voldemort. These opposites are also at play within the lead character, Harry. He is continuously presented with scenarios in which he must decide how to act. The characters that show courage are always presented in a positive light and rewarded, making it obvious what the message of the movie is. 

Solitude vs Togetherness Harry wanting to fight Voldemort alone and not risk his friends, he wins in the end by working together with his friends.

Quirkiness vs Normalcy

Violence vs Pacifism

There are many more opposites at play. You can determine your own, but remember what is the meaning!!





 


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