audience

• Consider the ways in which factors in the music video contrast and conflict, and whether this creates a confused meaning in audiences or offers a coherent message.


  ¬ The use of costume is interesting. Antebellum dresses which seem to reference slavery contrast heavily with stereotypical “pop” signifiers such as tight fitting/revealing costume in some of the dance sections

  ¬ Similarly Beyoncé’s performance shifts from moments of aggression such as obscene gestures with her fingers to more culturally recognisable dance routines that seem less loaded with political or social messages.
• Explore whether this video is in fact a collection of images that refer very specifically to reality and encourage audiences to consider and discuss these issues.