Campion Presents Flawed Characters in a Flawed Environment. to What Extent Is This True?

SACE stage 1 English

The Piano

Campion presents flawed characters in a flawed environment. To what extent is this true?

Campion uses a variety of colour and scenery to express the personality of her characters. This variety is shown through Ada and her relationship with both Stewart and Baines, and her feelings for them is expressed not just through the piano, however through the colours of scenery in various locations in New Zealand. When Ada is with Stewart, the lighting is very dark, the weather is harsh and there is little wildlife around. However, with Baines the colours are bright and wildlife is frequent. Therefore Campion presents Ada differently with both Stewart and Baines and the environment reflects her feelings and emotions for them.

Stewart and his relationship with the environment reflect his relationship with Ada. He doesn’t respect the natives and has no idea how to cultivate it. This is a mirror affect on Ada as well, as he tries to cultivate and bend her, however does not no how to communicate. An example of this was when he traded Ada’s piano for 80 acres of land; this shows that he doesn’t recognize her passion for the instrument which is a major part of her communication. The scenery when Ada is with Stewart also represents their distant relationship. Stewarts hut is surrounded by burnt and smoking ground, is very dark and is always raining. There is no green, sunlight, or wildlife surrounding the area and is a strong contributor why no one else lives in the area. This adds to the flawed and negative relationship Ada has with Stewart.

Baines and his relationship with the environment definitely reflect that with Ada. He unlike Stewart respects his people and has a strong connection with the environment. This is parallel to his relationship with Ada, as he understands her passion for the piano and how to communicate with her. The scenery when they are together also represents their strong connection. Baines house is surrounded with abundant wildlife and green ancient trees. Many people live in this area and Ada feels safe and free here.