Representation of Class and Status in Downton Abbey

Discuss the representation of Class and Status in the extract from downton abbey.

In this text the different classes are represented in certain ways so as to easily differentiate one from the other. These different classes are created through various different elements, like sound, editing, camera work and mis-en-scene. 

Mis-en-Scene

This extract focuses mainly on the working class and the upper class. The working class are, in this extract, presented as servants and newspaper boys and butlers, living to serve the upper class. You are able to tell which characters are of a lower class due to factors such as mis-en-scene. The working class servants are all depicted in their uniforms, which informs the viewer that they are working and all of one group, as they are all dressed the same. 

Camera-Work

Secondly, scenes featuring the lower class usually feature much more fast-paced camera work and quickly cut editing. Shots often feature more than one person in order to create that busy, bustling atmosphere of work and stress, especially in the kitchen area. 

Sound

Another way in which the audience is able to differentiate the working class from the upper class is through sound. This can include both background music, and language and accent. For example, when the audience is shown the working class the music is usually of a faster pace, adding to a sense of business and stress. In addition, the way in which these characters speak can help the audience to categorise their class; they are not as well-spoken, and refer to the upper class as terms such as "my lord".

Camera Work

In contrast, the upper class are presented very differently to the lower class. When the upper class is in shot, scenes are usually much longer with much more focus on the characters speech and emotions and body language, and many close ups and mid shots and scenes featuring just one person are featured, to emphasise more on what individual characters would like to say. This makes the audience  subconsciously gather that the words that these characters speak are much more important and emphasised, than those of the servants in the bustling, busy kitchen. 

Sound

In addition, sound also helps to create the essence of the upper class. The upper class characters are usually rather well spoken people. As well as this, the music played when focusing on the upper class characters tends to be soft and regal, creating a calming and important atmosphere.

Mis-en-Scene

 Upper-class characters are also very well dressed especially in comparison with servants; even their bed clothes are beautiful. In addition, they have many materialistic possessions which show that they are wealthy people. Examples of this include the large painting behind their dining table, the four poster beds, and the very sheer fact that they have servants.