BLOOD BROTHERSL.O: THE EXPLORE THE THEME OF FATE AND SUPERSTITION

STARTER – MIND MAP

Superstitions

SUPERSTITION AND FATEMajor themes running through the play.Many argue that our lives are plotted out for us and whatever we do we cannot escape our fate. The philosopher Novalis puts an interesting spin on this ‘character is fate.’ Suggesting who we are results in what happens to us. Liverpool has a very large Catholic community. [Mrs. J] When strong religion and ‘old wives tales’ mix the combination is powerful!

• Highlight all the superstitions listed in the song.

• What is Russell’s purpose here? Why does he use these themes? What is the significance of Mrs Lyon’s and Mrs Johnstone’s relationship with these themes.

Shoes upon the tablean' a spider's been killed.Someone broke the lookin' glassa full moon shinin'an' the salt's been spilled.You're walkin' on the pavement cracksdon't know what's gonna come to pass.Now y' know the devil's got your number,y' know he's gonna find y',y' know he's right behind y',he's starin' through your windowshe's creeping down the hall.

Ain't no point in clutchingat your rosaryyou're always gonna know what was doneeven when you shut your eyes you still seethat you sold a sonand you can't tell anyonebut y' know the devils got your numbery' know he's gonna find y',y' know he's right behind y'he's standin' on your stepand he's knocking at your doorhe's knocking at your door,he's knocking at your door.

HE’S KNOCKING AT YOUR DOOR

•WHO IS KNOCKING IN THE NEXT SCENE? WHAT IS RUSSELL SUGGESTING HERE?