This document discusses representations of class and status in an extract. It summarizes how: 1) The bin men are represented as low class through their dirty uniforms, lack of manners while eating, and common accents. 2) Macbeth is represented as having power and status as the head chef through low camera angles, his uniform, and being surrounded by respectful workers. 3) Lady Macbeth is represented as high class through her makeup, smart clothing, and controlling demeanor over other workers. She is also shown to have an intimate relationship with her husband Macbeth.

1. Discuss the ways in which the extract constructs the representations of class and status
In this clip, the bin men are represented as low class. When they are in the rubbish truck, they are
each shown in individual close-ups eating sandwiches. We see the food in their mouths while talking
showing that they have no manners. All three of them are wearing bin men uniforms which are dirty
and untidy and none of them are clean shaven. This shows that they are all as equal as each other.
They are located at a rubbish tip and the lighting is natural and dull creating a sense of realism and
authenticity. The ambient sound includes seagulls and a strong wind blowing. This again makes the
scene seem more real. The three of them are listening to the radio which is diegetic sound. All of
them have deep voices and common accents which show they are of a lower class.
Macbeth is shown in a low angle when cutting up the pig showing he has control. The other chefs
are surrounding him showing he has power and importance. This also shows that he is respected by
his workers. He wears a chef uniform showing that he is committed to his workplace. Theset design
of the kitchen in which he works is very bright due to the stainless steel work areas and uses tones of
grey and blue creating a cold atmosphere. Before we enter the kitchen, we hear the exaggerated
diegetic sound of knives being sharpened. Thekey props are the amount of knives around him
implying weaponry and wickedness which are iconic to the story.Macbeth is represented as friendly
in this clipas he is sings and his workers join in showing that they have a sociable relationship.
Macbeth’s mode of address is calm and collected as he knows what he is talking about, for example,
‘First rule in the kitchen; respect’.
Lady Macbeth is represented as high class. We see this from her make-up and costume. When we
first see her she is applying her make up seriously showing that she knows she has to look well
groomed for her role in her profession. Her clothing is smart as she wears a silk blouse and trousers.
Her performance and expression when moving the cutlery precisely shows that she is very
controlling and has to show her superiority against the other workers. The lighting in the dining area
is very dim creating warmth mood and a stylish atmosphere as the only light in the area is from
lampshades hanging above each of the tables. Although Lady Macbeth does not appear to have any
welcoming emotions, we see that she has an intimate relationship with her husband. We see her kiss
Macbeth as he comes up the stairs and giggling. Shortly after, we see the two of them holding
hands. The incidental music at this moment is jittery and shows mischievousness and a sense of
secrecy that they are plotting something.