Language Features - Connotative Language

Question 1

How are aboriginal people constructed?

Answer 1

Aboriginal people appear twice and in both interactions they have been constructed as “other” or different from the norm in colonial Australia.

Question 2

Body Paragraph 3 - Quote 1 Explanation

Answer 2

The word “astonished” typically has denotations of amazement or surprise, but in this context is carries negative connotations
- represents lack of trust/low standards & expectations

Question 3

Body Paragraph 3 - Quote 2 Explanation 1

Answer 3

The word “black” had negative connotations and was commonly used by white Australians in a colonial 19th century context.

Question 4

Body Paragraph 3 - Quote 2 Explanation 2

Answer 4

It labels Aboriginal people as a way to distinguish them from white settlers

Question 5

Body Paragraph 3 - Quote 2 Explanation 3

Answer 5

Lawson’s representation of Indigenous Australians as ‘other’ depicts the colonial viewpoint of Aboriginal people by white settlers.

Question 6

Body Paragraph 3 - Quote 2 Explanation 4

Answer 6

Although they weren’t considered Australian, it reinforces the representation of Australians as tough, independent survivalists

Question 7

Body Paragraph 3 - Link Sentence

Answer 7

Through ability to remain strong and independent despite harsh, unforgiving nature of their situation, Indigenous Australians in colonial Australia were able to remain resilient, using knowledge of the land they called home, to help others like the white Australians survive.