The Visit: language

Language in The Visit

Symbolic Language

The language in The Visit is layered with symbolism. Certain phrases or descriptions carry an additional meaning, contributing to the overall theme and message of the play.
One instance is the repeated reference to the town of Güllen as a ‘pen’. This symbolises confinement and is indicative of the town’s collective trapped state both economically and morally.
There are several repetitions of imagery related to death and decay, such as “tomb-like” and “dying town”, which underscore the overarching gloomy atmosphere of the play and emphasise the town’s moral and physical decay.

Realistic and Non-Realistic Language

The play’s language oscillates between realistic and non-realistic. Realistic dialogue and monologues mirror everyday speech while the non-realistic language often veers towards poetic, symbolic, and dramatic.
Claire’s speeches are often non-realistic, with elements of hyperbole and poetic undertones, reflecting her extreme characterisation, and her divergent views from the townsfolk.

Use of Humour

Dark humour is employed frequently throughout the text, often in the face of grim circumstances. The irony and sarcasm in the dialogue accentuate the tragicomic aspects of the play.
For example, Claire’s line “I want to buy some justice” signifying her warped interpretation of justice introduces both a comical and terrifying perspective.

Dramatic Irony

Frequent use of dramatic irony is incorporated in the dialogue. The audience’s awareness of Ill’s impending doom while he and the townsfolk remain ignorant of it for a significant part of the play creates a palpable tension.
This technique fosters a critical distance between the audience and the action, which aligns with the principles of Brecht’s Epic Theatre.

Colloquial and Formal Language

There is a dichotomy in the use of colloquial and formal language, mirroring the social hierarchy and differing motivations of the characters.
The townsfolk primarily use colloquial language, emphasizing their community ties and local identity, while Claire and her entourage often employ more formal, refined language, reflecting their societal status and detachment from the local community.

Nuanced Expressions

There are layered and nuanced expressions which reveal the internal conflict within characters. A prime example is Ill’s veiled acknowledgements of his guilt and fate.
Phrases like “the woods are dark and deep, and I’ve miles to go before I sleep” imply Ill’s building acceptance of his fate, lending an emotional depth to the character.

Recorded Choruses

The usage of recorded choruses in the play – such as the Güllen chorus – blends the dialogue with Brecht’s Epic Theatre by periodically summarising the action and providing a communal opinion. It serves as a narrative comment on the course of events, guiding the audience’s interpretation of the actions unfolding on stage.