Discuss the theme of order versus disorder in my children my africa
In Athol Fugard's play, "My Children! My Africa!", the theme of order versus disorder is central to the story. The play is set in South Africa during apartheid, a system that institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. In this context, the struggle for order and justice is shown in three principal characters, Mr. M, Thami, and Isabel.
Mr. M is a black teacher who believes in the power of education to bring order and change to South Africa. He is devoted to his students and sees learning as a way to gain self-respect and rise above the oppression of apartheid. Mr. M's commitment to order is evident in his strict teaching style, as he believes that discipline is necessary to instill a sense of responsibility and discipline in his students.
Thami, a black student in Mr. M's class, represents the opposing force of disorder. Thami is frustrated with the slow pace of political change and believes that violence is the only way to bring about justice. He is passionate about his beliefs and sees Mr. M's commitment to education and discipline as a sign of submission to the oppressive system. Thami's anger and impatience drive him to join a violent movement, revealing the destructive power of disorder.
Isabel, a white student who is also in Mr. M's class, embodies the struggle for order in a different way. Isabel is different from her white peers in her perspective and beliefs, and she is deeply committed to justice and equality. Despite the threat of violence and the disintegration of the social fabric, Isabel believes that education and communication can overcome the political turmoil in South Africa. Isabel's passion for order is linked to her personal agency, as she rebels against her family's values and seeks her own path.
In conclusion, the theme of order and disorder in "My Children! My Africa!" is an exploration of how different forces contend against each other in the face of oppression and violence. The play suggests that only a strong conviction in justice and a willingness to challenge the status quo can overcome the forces of disorder. Mr. M's love of his students and dedication to education, Thami's passion for revolution, and Isabel's belief in communication and empathy are all expressions of the desire for order and the struggle to achieve it.