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Strictly Ballroom Comparative Essay

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Body Paragraph 1: Central to both "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare and "Strictly Ballroom" directed by Baz Luhrmann are themes of authority and rebellion, each exploring these themes through distinct narrative and stylistic lenses. In Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, the conflict between authority and individual desire is epitomized by Prince Escalus's urgent efforts to quell the Montague-Capulet feud, exemplified in his admonition: "Rebellious subjects, enemies to peace, professors of this neighbor-stainèd steel — Will they not hear?" This rhetorical flourish underscores the societal chaos stemming from familial defiance and necessitates intervention to restore order, highlighting the authoritative role of monarchy in maintaining social stability. The use of cumulative listing intensifies the gravity of transgressions committed by the feuding families, portraying them as …show more content…

In contrast, Luhrmann’s "Strictly Ballroom" critiques authority through the story of Scott Hastings, who challenges the rigid dance federation rules by embracing non-federation steps. When confronted, federation president Barry Fife dismisses Scott’s defiance with, "Well of course, you can dance any steps you like." That doesn’t mean you’ll win." This juxtaposition of freedom and consequence illustrates the film's critique of authority used to enforce conformity. Luhrmann employs cinematic techniques such as cross-cutting to heighten the intensity of Scott’s internal struggle, showcasing his transformation from compliance to rebellion against entrenched norms. Thus, both texts explore the theme of authority and rebellion, with Shakespeare focusing on political authority's role in maintaining order, while Luhrmann critiques authority's stifling effect on individuality within a modern

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This highlights Scott's predetermined fate within the rigid constraints of the federation's rules, emphasizing the illusion of freedom in a system where true deviation is penalized. Barry Fife's comment serves as a stark reminder that despite apparent choices, conformity remains the path to success in this authoritarian structure. Dissonant to Romeo and Juliet, where authority is reestablished through political power and the divine right of kings, in Strictly Ballroom, it aims to maintain order within traditions and conformity. Additionally, both composers, explore themes of authority in a similar manner when discussing the rebellion of it. This is displayed as Barry Fife confronts Scott to dance with Tina Sparkle, urging him to conform and seize the opportunity presented to him.

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