Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade Defends Charlie
100 Points Possible
In this scene from the film Scent of a Woman, Frank, played by Al Pacino, defends the character of his young temporary assistant, Charlie, played by Chris O'Donnell. Charlie was a witness to an act of vandalism to the prized car of the Dean of the prep school he attends and is now faced with either fingering the accomplices or being kicked out of Baird.
Watch the scene carefully, Pacino's monologue up to 4:54.
Once you've watched the artifact, please respond to and discuss these items:
- Identify the nature of proof in Frank's monologue, siting evidence he used in Charlie's defense. 15 Points
- Of the four styles of dramatic or vicarious proof, which did Frank exploit to turn attitudes around about Charlie? How did this style function in terms of reason? 25 Points
- What cultural myths or images were employed to increase the appeal of Frank's argument? How did this influence his attempted shift of opinion? 20 Points
- Which of Reich's parables apply or applies to Frank's reasoning? 5 Points
- What was Frank's reasoning in terms of logical appeal? 10 Points
- How did Frank's paralinguistics impact his expression and the meaning of his words? Please give specific examples – three will do. 25 Points
Due midnight, July 22nd. Please post your responses to your blog.
