Township+plays

This is the page dedicated to the discussing and analysis of the Township Plays of Fugard

It would be very nice if people were to help put stuff up or even tell us if the stuff we put up if any use to them. We have put quite a bit of effort into making it.

Here is a set of ideas on the character Willie

A possible essay question answered

Johnny and Queeny



Sample essay



Essay questions:

1. Individuals haunted by their conscience in township plays. Choose at least two plays and discuss to what extent this statement holds true.

2. Fugard explores idea of hopes and dreams in society which militates against optimism. To what extent is this true? Use at least two plays in your essay.

3. In the play "Sizwe Bansi is dead", what are Fugard's main concerns in this play and what dramatic techniques does he use to highlight these concerns?

This is a passage based question... sorry about not being able to type up the passage right now, might do so in later. As stated, this is from the play "Sizwe Bansi is dead", from

Man: Yes, But Sizwe Bansi is dead. Butnu: What about Robert Zwqelinzima then? THe poor bastard I pissed on out there in the dark. So he's alive again. Bloody miracle, man. Look, if someone was to offer me the things i wanted most in my life, the things that would make me, my wife, and my child happy, in exchange for the name Buntu...you think I wouldn't swop? Man: Are you sure, Buntu? ... Styles: Hold it, Robert. Hold it just like that. Just one more. Now smile, Robert....Smile....Smile... [ Camera flash and blackout.]

If you still have trouble finding the extract, it will be from 3 pages till last, to the last line.

4. Use the following as a starting point to discuss Fugard’s concerns in this play and the dramatic techniques he uses to highlight these concerns.

5. Fugard said that ‘moral courage is the first step towards changing one’s life.” How much do you think moral courage is highlighted in the characterization and structure of two or more of the Township Plays? 6. Discuss the impact of improvisation on the dramatic art of Fugard. You may wish to talk about the structure and acting as components of his art.
 * Why did the examiner choose this passage?
 * Is it a turning point?
 * Language? Character? Climax? Theme? Imagery?
 * What leads up to it?
 * What follows it?

Exercise: