Engl 101, Mason Topics
Group Work on Gabriel Over the White House

In-class group work and presentations on ONE of the following questions. After you have discussed one of these issues in your group, you will make a presentation to the class. You have the option of writing up your report and sending it to me electronically so I can post it on the web.

Was President Hammond justified in suspending democratic procedures in the film? Exactly what does he do and how might his actions be seen as undemocratic? Do the Depression and the inability or refusal of Congress and the Cabinet to act justify what he does? What about the issue of foreign debts and the arms race? Finally, do you agree with those who say that the film is fascist?
Compare the President in Gabriel Over the White House to a recent--or not so recent--American President. Can you think of other Presidents who claim divine inspiration, who suspend democratic procedures, or who are absolutely certain they know what is right? Are these qualities advantages or disadvantages in Hammond and in the real President(s) you have considered? Finally, can you generalize about what qualities you think make a President successful in a period of great crisis like a war or an economic collapse?
How is religion portrayed in the film? Is Hammond's religious inspiration entirely positive? What specific elements in the film can you point to that bear on this question? Why do you think the filmmakers introduced religion in a story about the government's response to the Great Depression? Finally, what do you think about how the Angel Gabriel's visit is handled?
How are women portrayed in the film? Are they primarily helpmates and romantic figures or do they play a role in the political drama of the film. Would it have mattered if Pendie Malone was more obviously Hammond's mistress, as in the original plan for the film? Finally, what role does the President's nephew Jimmy play in the film? Does his presence reveal anything about Hammond?