Blog Week Six, #9 & #11

Question #9

Carol’s statement, “according to the law”, points to her recent contact with the “group” she has so often referred to when making definitive accusations against John. Although she may be right as to the legal definition of rape, it also appears that she has escalated the entire context of their interactions within John’s office to include this highly inflammatory accusation. Because the author excludes her feelings and only highlights the awkward conversation between these two, and because the legal definition can vary in consideration of a victim’s feelings, there is no real concrete evidence other than Carol’s formal complaint to the Tenure Board Committee to suggest that she really felt violated in this way. Therefore, the accusation of rape feels extremely unexpected and radical when it surfaces. John’s reaction to this allegation is typical and, considering the dialogue, expected. Escalating what appears to be a blatant lack of communication and misunderstanding between two people to charges of rape seems to be an eruption of underlying emotional issues on the part of Carol.

Question #11

Mamet’s conclusion is satisfying yet disturbing. From Carol’s perspective, her ultimate point has been made. This professor is abusive, sadistic, and every bit the demeaning elitist she proclaims that he is. From John’s perspective, this helpless student, in search of the real meaning behind higher education and “understanding”, has ultimately assumed power over him and destroyed his career. Both are definitely responsible for the conclusion of this perilous magnitude. John’s archaic solutions to Carol’s indictment were far too intrusive given the circumstances, and proved such by his every attempt at reconciliation. Carol’s constant misinterpretation of his attempts to resolve their conflict only antagonized the situation and made it considerably worse.

The primal instinct to physically attack is reached when any attempts at communication are exhausted. After threatening John’s livelihood and removing his source of identity—his career as an educator, and a provider to his family—, Carol removes herself from the role of student and becomes simply and “obstacle” to be removed in John’s life. Carol’s consulting with her “group” has empowered her misunderstanding of John’s intentions and has led her to the wielding of power in a role reversal that leaves her abused and, redundantly, a victim.