Assignment July, 2022 & January, 2023 Sessions
Understanding Drama
Section A
Write short notes in about 200 words each: 2 × 5 = 10
(i) Greek Theatre
Greek theatre is a form of theatre that originated in ancient Greece and was part of the religious and cultural celebrations in honor of the god Dionysus. The plays were performed in outdoor amphitheaters and were based on mythological stories that explored the human condition and societal issues.
Greek theatre consisted of two main forms: tragedy and comedy. Tragedy was the more serious and somber form, exploring themes of fate, love, honor, and sacrifice. It often featured a chorus, which would comment on the action and offer insight into the characters' motivations. Comedy, on the other hand, was a more lighthearted form that satirized social and political issues. It often featured caricatures of politicians and common people, and was intended to provide comic relief.
The plays were performed by all-male casts, with actors wearing masks that symbolized their character's emotions and identities. The stage design was also an important aspect of Greek theatre, with elaborate sets and props that helped to bring the stories to life.
Greek theatre had a significant influence on the development of Western theatre and continues to be studied and performed today. Its themes and stories continue to resonate with modern audiences, and its impact on theatre and storytelling cannot be overstated.
(ii) Three Unities
The Three Unities are a set of guidelines that were developed in ancient Greece and were followed in classical drama. They are unity of time, unity of place, and unity of action.
Unity of time refers to the idea that a play should take place within a single day or 24-hour period. This was intended to create a sense of urgency and tension, as the characters' actions unfold in real-time.
Unity of place refers to the idea that a play should take place in a single location, such as a room or a courtyard. This was intended to create a sense of continuity and coherence, as the audience could easily follow the action and understand the setting.
Unity of action refers to the idea that a play should have a single, unified plot with a clear beginning, middle, and end. This was intended to create a sense of coherence and purpose, as the audience could easily follow the characters' motivations and understand the consequences of their actions.
The Three Unities were intended to create a sense of harmony and balance in classical drama, and they were widely followed by playwrights in the 17th and 18th centuries. However, they have been criticized by some modern playwrights for being too restrictive and limiting, and many contemporary plays do not adhere to them. Nonetheless, the Three Unities remain an important part of the history of theatre and continue to be studied and discussed by theatre scholars and practitioners.
Section B
Explain with reference to the context in 300 words each. 3 X 10 = 30
(i) ‘Chris…Chris, I did it for you, it was chance
And I took it for you. I’m sixty one years
old, when would I have another chance to make
something for you?
This quote is from the play "A View from the Bridge" by Arthur Miller. The speaker is Eddie Carbone, a longshoreman living in Brooklyn with his wife, Beatrice, and their niece, Catherine. Eddie has become increasingly possessive of Catherine, and his jealousy and desire for control have strained his relationships with his family and community. In this scene, Eddie is speaking to his wife, Beatrice, about his decision to report her cousins, Marco and Rodolpho, to the immigration authorities, which has resulted in Marco being detained and unable to provide for his family.
Eddie's statement, "Chris...Chris, I did it for you," reveals his deep-seated belief that he is acting in his family's best interests by turning in the illegal immigrants. He sees himself as a provider and protector, and believes that his actions are justified by his love for his family. However, as the play progresses, it becomes clear that Eddie's motives are more complex than he initially acknowledges. His obsession with Catherine, coupled with his resentment towards Marco and Rodolpho, has clouded his judgment and led him to make a decision that ultimately harms everyone involved.
Eddie's age and sense of urgency are also important elements of this quote. He is aware that he may not have many opportunities left to make a significant contribution to his family, and feels that he must act quickly to secure their future. However, his decision to betray his family's trust ultimately backfires, and he becomes increasingly isolated and estranged from those he loves.
This quote encapsulates some of the key themes of the play, including loyalty, betrayal, and the destructive power of obsession. It also underscores the complexity of Eddie's character, and the ways in which his actions are motivated by both love and resentment. Overall, this quote reveals the tragic consequences of Eddie's actions, and the devastating impact they have on those around him.
(ii) the object of his existence is ….. as if ……. he were
there only to fill in the gaps in the lives of
others …… whatever other people expect of him….. or
in whichever way they think they can use him.”
This quote is from the novel "The Stranger" by Albert Camus. The speaker is referring to the protagonist, Meursault, a detached and apathetic man who seems to have no sense of purpose or direction in his life. The quote suggests that Meursault's existence is defined by his willingness to conform to the expectations of others, rather than by any inherent sense of agency or self-determination.
The phrase "fill in the gaps in the lives of others" suggests that Meursault is seen as a kind of blank canvas onto which other people project their own desires and needs. He is viewed not as an individual with his own thoughts and feelings, but rather as a tool to be used for the benefit of others. This depersonalization is reinforced by the phrase "whatever other people expect of him," which suggests that Meursault's identity is shaped entirely by external forces.
The quote also hints at the idea that Meursault's existence is inherently meaningless. The phrase "as if he were there only to fill in the gaps" implies that Meursault's life is devoid of any inherent value or purpose, and that he exists solely to serve the needs of others. This nihilistic worldview is characteristic of Camus' philosophy of absurdism, which holds that human existence is inherently meaningless and that individuals must create their own sense of purpose in a meaningless world.
Overall, this quote highlights the themes of identity, agency, and purposelessness in "The Stranger." It suggests that Meursault is trapped in a cycle of conformity and depersonalization, and that his life lacks any inherent meaning or purpose. This sense of nihilism is a central theme of the novel, and reflects Camus' broader critique of the human condition.
(iii) ‘With the British, we have been losers all the way –
yes – but this is a new era. This is a new war. We
have bled for you. We have fought your wars for
you, against the Germans, Japanese, Italians.
This quote is from the novel "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy. The speaker is Velutha, an untouchable who works as a carpenter for the wealthy Ipe family in Kerala, India. Velutha is speaking to Ammu, the estranged wife of one of the Ipe brothers, who is also involved in a forbidden romantic relationship with Velutha. In this scene, Velutha is expressing his frustration with the historical relationship between India and Britain, and his belief that India has been exploited and oppressed by British colonialism.
The phrase "With the British, we have been losers all the way" suggests that Velutha sees British colonialism as a long-standing source of oppression and exploitation for India. He believes that India has consistently been on the losing end of this relationship, and that the British have consistently taken advantage of India's resources and people for their own benefit. However, Velutha also recognizes that the current situation is different, and that India has an opportunity to change the course of its history.
The phrase "this is a new era" suggests that Velutha sees the current moment as an opportunity for change and transformation. He believes that India has the potential to break free from the legacy of colonialism and forge its own path forward. This idea is reinforced by the phrase "This is a new war," which implies that India is engaged in a struggle for its own independence and sovereignty.
Finally, Velutha's reference to India's past conflicts with the Germans, Japanese, and Italians highlights the complex and multi-layered history of colonialism and imperialism in India. It underscores the idea that India has been impacted by a variety of external forces, and that its struggle for independence is part of a broader global struggle for self-determination and autonomy.
Overall, this quote reflects the broader themes of imperialism, colonialism, and resistance in "The God of Small Things." It highlights the historical legacy of British colonialism in India, while also expressing a sense of hope and possibility for the future.
Section C
Answer the following questions in 800 words each: 4 X 15 = 60
1. Discuss the theme of social responsibility in the play All My Sons.
Arthur Miller’s play All My Sons explores the theme of social responsibility through the story of the Keller family, who are faced with the consequences of their actions during World War II. The play highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in their personal and professional lives and explores the consequences of neglecting social responsibility. The characters in the play are forced to grapple with the moral implications of their choices, and the consequences of their decisions have far-reaching effects on their lives and the lives of those around them.
One of the key themes of the play is the responsibility that individuals have to their communities and to society as a whole. The play is set in the aftermath of World War II, and the characters are forced to confront the ethical implications of their actions during the war. The character of Joe Keller, in particular, is shown to have prioritized his own financial gain over the safety of his fellow soldiers, which ultimately leads to the deaths of several men. The play highlights the idea that individuals have a responsibility to prioritize the welfare of others over their own self-interest, and that neglecting this responsibility can have catastrophic consequences.
Another aspect of social responsibility explored in the play is the importance of honesty and integrity in personal relationships. The character of Chris Keller, Joe's son, is shown to be struggling with the knowledge of his father's wrongdoing during the war, and is ultimately forced to confront the truth about his father's actions. The play highlights the idea that individuals have a responsibility to be truthful with one another, and that concealing the truth can lead to profound personal and social consequences.
The play also explores the idea of responsibility in the context of family dynamics. The Keller family is shown to be deeply interconnected, and the decisions made by individual family members have significant impacts on the lives of others. The character of Kate Keller, Joe's wife, is shown to be deeply invested in protecting her family from the consequences of their actions, even at the cost of denying the truth. The play highlights the idea that individuals have a responsibility to their families, but that this responsibility cannot be separated from their broader social responsibilities to the wider community.
Finally, the play emphasizes the importance of accountability and justice in society. The characters are forced to confront the legal and moral implications of their actions, and are ultimately held accountable for their wrongdoing. The play highlights the idea that individuals have a responsibility to take responsibility for their actions and to work towards rectifying the harm that they have caused. This theme is reflected in the final scene of the play, where Joe Keller acknowledges his wrongdoing and accepts the consequences of his actions.
In conclusion, Arthur Miller’s play All My Sons explores the theme of social responsibility through its portrayal of the Keller family and the consequences of their actions during World War II. The play highlights the importance of prioritizing the welfare of others over self-interest, the significance of honesty and integrity in personal relationships, and the interconnectedness of family and social responsibility. The play ultimately emphasizes the importance of accountability and justice in society, and highlights the idea that individuals have a responsibility to take responsibility for their actions and work towards rectifying the harm that they have caused.
2. How does the Mau Mau struggle get reflected in the play The Trial of Dedan Kimathi? Discuss.
"The Trial of Dedan Kimathi" by Ngugi wa Thiong’o and Micere Githae Mugo is a powerful play that portrays the struggle for independence in Kenya during the Mau Mau rebellion. The play is a vivid representation of the political, social, and economic realities of colonial Kenya, and it reflects the Mau Mau struggle in many ways.
Firstly, the play highlights the struggle of the Mau Mau fighters against colonial oppression. The Mau Mau was a resistance movement that fought for independence from British colonial rule in Kenya. The play portrays the violent struggle of the Mau Mau against the British colonizers, and their fight for self-determination and liberation. The Mau Mau fighters are portrayed as patriots who are willing to die for their cause, and who refuse to submit to the oppressive colonial system.
Secondly, the play reflects the cultural identity of the Mau Mau fighters. The Mau Mau were largely drawn from the Kikuyu community, and the play reflects their cultural values, beliefs, and practices. The play highlights the importance of traditional customs and rituals, and the role that they played in sustaining the Mau Mau struggle. The play also reflects the deep sense of solidarity among the Mau Mau fighters, and the importance of community and collective action.
Thirdly, the play reflects the brutality of the colonial system and the atrocities committed against the Mau Mau fighters. The Mau Mau fighters were subjected to torture, detention, and other forms of violence by the British colonial authorities. The play portrays the inhuman treatment of the Mau Mau fighters by the colonial regime, and the psychological toll that this violence had on the fighters and their families.
Finally, the play reflects the political and ideological debates surrounding the Mau Mau rebellion. The play explores the tensions between different factions within the Mau Mau movement, and the debates over the goals and strategies of the movement. The play also reflects the role of external forces, such as the Soviet Union and China, in supporting the Mau Mau struggle.
In conclusion, "The Trial of Dedan Kimathi" is a powerful play that reflects the struggle of the Mau Mau rebellion in many ways. The play highlights the fight against colonial oppression, the cultural identity of the Mau Mau fighters, the brutality of the colonial system, and the political and ideological debates surrounding the rebellion. The play is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Mau Mau fighters, and their struggle for self-determination and liberation.
3. How is the character of Chris contrary to that of his father in All My Sons?
In Arthur Miller's play, "All My Sons," the character of Chris Keller is in many ways contrary to his father, Joe Keller. While Joe is a successful businessman who prioritizes profit and self-interest over moral considerations, Chris is a war veteran who has a strong sense of social responsibility and morality.
One of the most significant differences between Chris and his father is their attitudes towards the war. Joe is a profiteer who knowingly sold faulty airplane parts to the military during World War II, leading to the deaths of twenty-one pilots. He justifies his actions by claiming that he did it for his family's financial stability. In contrast, Chris is a former soldier who fought in the war and witnessed firsthand the horrors of combat. He is haunted by his experiences and deeply committed to the idea that every individual has a responsibility to fight for the greater good.
Another way in which Chris differs from his father is in his relationships with women. Joe has a history of infidelity, having had an affair with Steve Deever's wife, Ann. He is willing to sacrifice the well-being of others, including his own family, for his own personal gain. In contrast, Chris is in love with Ann and willing to risk his relationship with his father to be with her. He is committed to the idea of true love and the importance of honesty and loyalty in relationships.
Furthermore, Chris's relationship with his mother, Kate, is also in stark contrast to Joe's. Kate is unable to let go of her son Larry, who was declared missing in action during the war. She is unable to accept his death and holds onto the hope that he is still alive. Joe is complicit in Kate's denial, refusing to accept the truth about Larry's fate and covering up his own guilt in the faulty airplane parts scandal. Chris, on the other hand, is determined to face the truth and move on from Larry's death. He is willing to confront his family's painful history and take responsibility for his own actions.
Another significant difference between Chris and Joe is their sense of social responsibility. Joe prioritizes his own financial gain over the well-being of others and is willing to cut corners and take shortcuts to achieve success. He believes that the world is made up of winners and losers and that it is his responsibility to ensure that his family is on the winning side. In contrast, Chris believes that every individual has a responsibility to contribute to society and work towards a greater good. He is committed to the idea of social responsibility and believes that it is his duty to fight for justice and equality.
In conclusion, the character of Chris Keller in "All My Sons" is in many ways contrary to that of his father, Joe Keller. While Joe is a selfish and ruthless businessman, Chris is a war veteran with a strong sense of social responsibility and morality. Chris prioritizes love and honesty in relationships, is willing to face the truth about his family's history, and believes in the importance of contributing to society. The contrast between the two characters highlights the themes of morality, responsibility, and the consequences of selfishness.
4. Comment on the clash of different perspectives in Halfway House.
Halfway House, written by Mohan Rakesh, explores the theme of cultural conflict and the clash of different perspectives through the interaction of two families belonging to different social and economic classes. The play presents a scathing critique of the rigid caste system prevalent in Indian society and the challenges faced by individuals who try to challenge traditional social norms.
The play revolves around two families, one belonging to the upper caste Brahmin community and the other to the lower caste Dalit community. The Brahmin family consists of the widowed mother, Shanta, her son, Anirudh, and his wife, Vandana. The Dalit family consists of the father, Madhav, his wife, Basanti, and their two sons, Rakesh and Chandu.
The play begins with the arrival of the Dalit family at the Brahmin family's house, where they seek refuge after being displaced from their own home due to a flood. The clash of different perspectives and cultural norms becomes apparent from the outset, as the Brahmin family struggles to come to terms with the presence of the Dalit family in their home. The Brahmin family is initially uncomfortable with the presence of the Dalit family, but they gradually begin to warm up to them and develop a relationship based on mutual respect.
However, the relationship between the two families is soon strained by the discovery that Rakesh, the elder son of the Dalit family, is in love with Vandana, the wife of Anirudh. This revelation leads to a clash of different perspectives, as the Brahmin family is unable to accept the idea of a Dalit boy being in love with their daughter-in-law. The Brahmin family is deeply entrenched in traditional social norms, and they are unable to see beyond their own prejudices and biases.
The play highlights the challenges faced by individuals who try to challenge traditional social norms and the caste system prevalent in Indian society. The character of Rakesh is a rebel who refuses to accept the limitations imposed on him by his caste and social status. He is in love with Vandana and wants to marry her, but he is unable to do so because of the social stigma attached to inter-caste marriages.
The clash of different perspectives is further highlighted by the character of Anirudh, who is torn between his loyalty to his family and his love for his wife. Anirudh is initially hostile towards the Dalit family and refuses to accept them as equals. However, he gradually begins to empathize with them and develops a relationship based on mutual respect. Anirudh's journey reflects the struggle faced by individuals who try to reconcile their own beliefs and values with the expectations of their families and society.
In conclusion, Halfway House is a powerful play that explores the theme of cultural conflict and the clash of different perspectives through the interaction of two families belonging to different social and economic classes. The play presents a scathing critique of the rigid caste system prevalent in Indian society and the challenges faced by individuals who try to challenge traditional social norms. The clash of different perspectives is further highlighted by the characters of Rakesh and Anirudh, who struggle to reconcile their own beliefs and values with the expectations of their families and society. Overall, the play highlights the need for greater understanding and empathy towards individuals from different backgrounds and the importance of challenging traditional social norms to achieve a more just and equitable society.
