Atonement Chapter 1

Briony decides to take control of the play rehearsal, choosing to be the director.

Lola initially directs the play rehearsal, casting roles and driving the process forward.

The children perform a play, experiencing challenges in their performance and production.

Shifting power within the group as Briony takes control of the rehearsal.

The play's focus is on Arabella's refusal to obey her father, leading to conflict and leaving home.

The process of assigning roles to characters in a play.

Briony's internal struggle with her feelings and perceptions of her cousin and sister's actions.

Challenges in the rehearsal process, including misinterpretations and difficulties in pronunciation.

The big sister's arrival interrupts the rehearsal process.

Briony's assertion as director creates tension and results in shifts of power in the group.

Briony faces a difficult choice about who should play Arabella in a play, influenced by Lola's actions and the twins' desires.

Lola subtly manipulates the situation to secure the role of Arabella.

The play holds significance for Briony and her cousins due to family dynamics and her emotional connection to it.

Briony is reluctant to let Lola play Arabella, but unable to articulate her concerns.

Briony's youthfulness affects her position, making her feel less confident and capable than Lola.

The character of Arabella in the play is important because Briony's identity is intertwined with the character.

Briony feels immense social pressure from the other children, influencing her decision-making process.

Lola uses her past illness as a justification for playing Arabella, adding another layer of manipulation.

The twins' opinions subtly influence Briony's decision-making about the play and her part.

Lola's final card, a powerful argument, makes it nearly impossible for Briony to refuse her request.