Recognising the meaning behind gestures
Look at the following images and think about what each gesture communicates. Then check your responses against the sample answer.
Question
The first image shows characters in a Victorian melodrama. In melodrama the gestures are bold and exaggerated. The woman on her knees is holding out her hands in a begging or pleading gesture. The man displays anguish and frustration through the gesture of holding his forehead with his hand, as if he can’t cope. His other hand is outstretched in a clear gesture of keeping distance, to be left alone.
The second image shows two people shaking hands, which is a clear gesture of friendship. It’s not a formal handshake so it doesn’t imply a business arrangement. The characters’ smiling faces suggest that they’re greeting one another warmly. As their bodies are close together they appear to be familiar to each other and of equal status. We know however that they aren’t in a romantic relationship as a handshake is more formal than a kiss.
