Doubt Play Themes

There are many themes and issues displayed in the play such as power, conflict, change and doubt. These themes have each got their own purpose to create ‘Doubt’ in the minds of the reader.
The picture of the wind in the top right corner of the poster is used to symbolise change. This use of symbolism is shown in the play through stage directions “The sound of wind. Sister Aloysius pulls her shawl lightly about her and goes. After a moment, Sister James goes as well”. The wind storm is a symbol of trouble minds of the characters and troubled times ahead. In particular this windstorm symbolises the mind of Sister James, which is full of confusion and uncertainty after the words of Sister Aloysius. This also foreshadows the future problems that
This theme is used to depict the context in which the play was set with Sister Aloysius embedded with the ‘old ways’ and Father Flynn embracing the ideas Vatican Two. This theme is shown on the poster with the juxtaposition of the quill pen and the ballpoint pen in the bottom right corner of the poster. This theme is shown with the quotes “I’m sorry I allowed even cartridge pens into the school. The students really should be only learning script with the fountain pens. Always the easy way out these days. What does that teach? Every easy choice today will have its consequence tomorrow. Mark my words”. The ballpoint is a symbol of the doubt Sister Aloysius has for change and progression. Her attitudes towards these types of pens opposed to the traditional fountain pen, displays her doubt in the changing nature of
This is shown on the poster with photos on the top left of the poster as well as the picture of the sign post representing the extent that Sister Aloysius will go to, to stop Father Flynn. Throughout the play it is evident that both Sister Aloysius and Father Flynn are both fighting for the power in the school. This is done with both Sister Aloysius and Father Flynn both fighting to gain followers. This search for power is done by Sister Aloysius by calling Sister James to her office and then convincing her to support her in bringing down Father Flynn. This proves throughout the play to give Sister Aloysius the power over Father Flynn eventually resulting in his resignation. This can be shown with the quote “I will step outside the church if that's what needs to be done, till the door should shut behind me! I will do what needs to be done, though I'm damned to Hell! You should understand that, or you will mistake me” this quote shows the power in what Sister Aloysius is saying and the power she has over Father