The Love of the Nightingale: sub-text

The Love of the Nightingale: Sub-Text

Sub-text can be described as the underlying themes, messages, or meanings that are not explicitly stated in the text of the play, but are implied or suggested by the words, actions, and settings. These can be analysed by what is unsaid or what is left to the interpretation of the audience or reader.

Themes and Issues in Sub-Text

  • Power and Oppression
    • This can be seen through Tereus’s control over Procne and Philomele, embodying male dominance in a patriarchal society.
    • It also demonstrates how power can be corrupted and used to perpetuate violence and silence victims, as seen in the brutal assault on Philomele.
  • Silence and Voice
    • The idea of silence is viewed through different aspects such as the forced silence of Philomele through mutilation and the chosen silence of Procne in her bid to retain dignity and control.
    • The power of voice is portrayed not just in speech, but through actions, such as Philomele’s decision to weave her story into a tapestry.
  • Transformation and Metamorphosis
    • Symbols of transformation and metamorphosis can be gleaned from the bird imagery, which signifies change, freedom and escape.
    • The physical and emotional transformations of Procne and Philomele also mirror the idea of metamorphosis.

Symbols as Sub-Text

  • The symbol of birds and the mythological metamorphosis into various species of birds portrays a theme of freedom and transcendence of mortal pain.
  • Ocean and sea images are used to symbolise distance, change, and the unknown.
  • Blood and red imagery is prominent to depict brutality, passion, and sacrifice.

Dialogue as Sub-Text

  • The use of storytelling within the dialogue, as with the tale of Echo and Narcissus, reveals underlying themes about identity, reflection, and the power of voice.
  • Tereus’s persuasive speech to Pandion is symbolic of manipulation through language.
  • The silent communication of Philomele through her tapestry demonstrates the power of non-verbal communication.

Use of Dramatic Techniques as Sub-Text

  • The use of the Chorus embodies societal attitudes and moral commentary.
  • Scene transitions and settings convey change and progression.
  • The juxtaposition of comedic and tragic elements in the play reveals a sub-text about the complexities of human experience.

Remember, the sub-text is a crucial aspect of “The Love of the Nightingale”, contributing to its depth and complexity. It is key to understanding the multiple layers of the play’s narrative, themes, and characters.