Kendall Butt Extra Credit Question 1: Characterization in Oleanna

With all of the questions posed in Oleanna, it helps to step back and focus on the tools used by the writer that serve as the base for the entire play. First impressions hold strong, as everyone knows, and the first impressions of of both Carol and John provide base for the remainder of the production. Carol is designed in a way to give the audience no choice but to absolutely disregard her authority. She is not only completely obnoxious in her line of question and actions, but her first outfit is quite loose and baggy which can instill a negative view on her character for the viewer. John, on the other hand, is first showcased in his highly prestigious office and clean attire. He is created as not only a educated man, but also a rational character, and this decreases the regard for Carol's intelligence. Carol's character also tends to create facial expressions that are most often scrutinized and confused. John, on the other hand is seen as clear faced and generally calm in his dealings with Carol. His relaxed demeanor and undying effort to use extremely verbose language leads to intensify Carol's panicked and paranoid  attitude and questioning. It can also be easily observed that John is comfortable in his environment. He strides around his office, sitting on desks and table, and does not hesitate on an opportunity to be at an angle above Carol. Opposite this, Carol timidly follows John's lead and only appears headstrong in her efforts  to interrupt and argue with John. Her flustered interjections give away her low self-confidence. Despite the basis of the characters created through their body language and appearance, the play can lead viewers to find a sense of empathy for Carol, and a loathing for John nearing the end--the fact being that the main determinant of one's feelings towards these characters is their own socio-economic standing.