1. O N THE W ATERFRONT T HEMES

2. F AITH Comparison of Dugan’s death to “crucifixions” Terry – Christ list figure – blood after his final confrontation Terry’s soul fought over by Father Barry and Johnny. Those who were prepared to risk themselves were permanently “muzzled” – their deaths created fear. Edie makes Father Barry aware that God is needed everywhere. The sermon over the body of Dugan – spiritual salvation to the waterfront “Jesus stands alongside you in the shape up” “Christ’s in the hatch and in the union hall.” The faith in Terry

3. Remember to watch for: Structure – how is the text organised? Symbols/Motifs – repetition – maximise the effect Tone Sentences – length Vocabulary choice Conflict Emotive language Techniques – alliteration, repetition. Use of questioning Dialogue Characters Humour Punctuation Images Narration

4. Moral struggle / conscience One man’s choice – “standing with the right people so you have a little bit of change jinglin in your pocket” “finish what he started” – self-preservation to moral choice. Terry is uncomfortable from the beginning – his role in Joey’s death Knows the importance of maintaining Friendly’s friendship. The repercussions of testifying. Punishment is often deadly. Is Terry an anti-hero (suffers from imperfections, villain characteristics). Edie “How can I go back to school and keep my mind on things that are just in books that arent’ people living?” – Her moral responsibilities. Father Barry – “What’s ratting to them is telling the truth to you.” He hopes to guide the longshoreman in their moral struggle – the right choice “testifying for what is right against what is wrong.” Silence is sin. Father Barry uses language that they can understand. Joey’s jacket – symbol of meeting the demands of conscience.

5. Power and corruption Has corruption on the waterfront been eliminated? Or will the power come in different forms? “If Mr Friendly calls I’m out.” Mr Upstairs remains untouched. Charley – desire for power leads to corruption. Terry was shocked at the lucrative offer. Corruption killed Joey and Dugan. Keeping those in power happy. The difference in clothing – long coats At the end, the door to Johnny’s corruption is closed (for the time being). No real liberation, no real promise of change – It only promises that Friendly will be kept out for the time being. control

6. Redemption Terry initially unwillling to get involved in the investigation “every man for himself.” Terry is redeemed by the film’s end – no longer a ‘bum’ to the longshoreman and more importantly himself. Neither of Terry’s confessions are inside the church – Terry must take action if he wishes to be redeemed for his involvement in Joey’s murder. Metaphorical ring “fight like he used to” To simply testify is not enough Terry is redeemed through his relationship with Edie – he discovered forgiveness. Terry finds where his allegiances lie. Charley – redeemed – “tell him I couldn’t bring you in.” Knowing what would happen. He is ultimately crucified for this choice – reinforcing the redemption that has taken place.

7. Bonds Family and community “Uncle Johnny” Parental figure – Charley Betrayal – Johnny and Charley – Loyalty compromised Longshoremen’s offer to contribute part of their wages to Pop for lost work after Joey died. The fear of the men Edie determined to remain loyal – not part of the waterfront community Edie’s desire for justice – drives the narrative, she refuses to return to St Anne’s – compromise the relationship with her father Father Barry – new father figure?

8. Masculine world It’s a man’s world – other than Edie Never any mention of Terry’s mother The environment Terry was raised in – not gentle, but violent and repressed emotions. The wedding lacks romance – drunkenness Stark contrasts in setting – industrialised backdrop – where nature is suggested Edie describes Terry as an “animal” “Take is out on the skulls.” Communication is mainly physical – Terry’s lack of ease Terry’s triumph – Not in the courtroom Physical strength a symbol of toughness

9. Truth/Justice ‘Stool Pigeon’ – the consequences are very real Corrupt morality Edie/Father Barry Some justice for Joey and Kayo Edie has some closure