Comparing ideas of art in Duffy's 'War Photographer' and Ghose's 'Decomposition'
I can compare how Duffy and Ghose present ideas of art and futility in ‘War Photographer’ and ‘Decomposition’.
Comparing ideas of art in Duffy's 'War Photographer' and Ghose's 'Decomposition'
I can compare how Duffy and Ghose present ideas of art and futility in ‘War Photographer’ and ‘Decomposition’.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Arguably, we might see Duffy’s poem as a critique of the viewer and their response to suffering in art.
- We might see Ghose’s poem as a critique of humanity and the artist.
- Arguably, we might see Duffy demonstrating the futility of using art to inspire action against suffering.
- Potentially, we might see Ghose suggesting the futility of trying to capture human suffering through art.
Keywords
Obligation - something that a person feels morally or legally forced to do
Chide - to speak to someone severely because the person has behaved badly
Presumption - behaviour perceived as arrogant, disrespectful, and inappropriate
Futility - the fact of having no effect or of achieving nothing
Common misconception
Taking a photograph of someone's suffering is an effective way of showing their suffering to others.
Arguably, both Duffy and Ghose reveal the futility of using art as a means of showing their suffering to others.
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: Comparing ideas of art in Duffy's 'War Photographer' and Ghose's 'Decomposition', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: Comparing ideas of art in Duffy's 'War Photographer' and Ghose's 'Decomposition', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the Poetry anthology (Assessment from summer 2027) unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need a copy of the Eduqas 2025 Anthology of this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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