| Source | The Times, June 7th 1944 |
| Event referred to | 6th June 1944: D-Day |
| Technological characteristics | Text file from scanned in document |
| Description of the source | Newspaper article in English. Accessed through library microfiche archives of Times newspaper. |
| Contextualisation of the source | The Times is a long established British newspaper, conservative in nature. This report was one of a number which appeared over the days following the D-Day landings of June 6th 1944. This report appears on page 4 on 7th June 1944; the first three pages of the Times were, at that time, given over to notices (births, marriages, appointments etc) rather than news. |
| Interpretation of the source | This report differs from earlier more general reports in that it focuses on the sea invasion and has been written by a reporter with the invasion forces. The tone of the article is heroic and suggestive of a bravery of action. The historic nature of the events being described is clear with phrases such as “the mightiest armada” not only providing an historical link to the Armada of queen Elizabeth I which defeated the Spanish forces but which also is used to suggest strength and power of the sea borne forces.
The writer suggests that amongst the soldiers there is no such air of historical acts being under way but rather that there is a sense of relief that the waiting is over.
Such a contrast in feelings suggests a difference in view points.
The atmosphere of controlled organisation and secrecy surrounding the events is strong throughout the piece and adds to the air of anticipation, strength and success. It also provides a more personal insight into events.
Again the idea of propaganda needs to be considered in reading this article. A negative image would damage the morale of soldiers and general public alike; the need to present a positive picture could be behind such a report.
|
| Original Contents | |
| Original Contents (English Translation) | |
