Summary
Summary eng1501 assignment 3 best solution
eng1501 assignment 3 best solution , this document will help you to understand the assignment
[Show more]
Content preview
Title: Comrade Q: A Minor Character Reflecting History, Transition, Inequality, and Class in SmallThings
Introduction:
In Nthikeng Mohlele's novel Small Things, Comrade Q may be a minor character, but his role serves
as a catalyst for discussing significant themes in post-Apartheid South Africa. This essay explores
Comrade Q's portrayal as a minor character and how he reinforces the themes of history and
transition, as well as the interconnected theme of inequality and class. By analyzing the provided
extract from pages 75 to 76, we will delve into Comrade Q's character and its implications on South
Africa's transformation from Apartheid to a democratic state.
Body:
The Role of a Minor Character and Comrade Q's Portrayal:
In literary terms, minor characters may have limited page time, yet they often fulfill crucial functions
within the narrative. Comrade Q falls into this category, symbolizing a particular segment of post-
Apartheid South Africa's society. Although he may not dominate the plot, his presence represents a
larger social group and acts as a lens to examine historical shifts and social dynamics.
Reinforcing the Theme of History and Transition:
The theme of history and transition in South Africa from Apartheid to democracy is echoed through
Comrade Q's character. The extract on pages 75 to 76 introduces us to the frost descending on
Benito, metaphorically representing the chilling effects of change. Comrade Q's emergence as a new
wealthy class symbolizes the transition from a system of oppression to a democratic society. His
presence signifies the empowerment and opportunity that arose for previously disadvantaged
individuals post-Apartheid.
Exploring Inequality and Class:
Comrade Q's character is intricately connected to the theme of inequality and class in post-
Apartheid South Africa. The novel suggests that a select group of comrades, leveraging their anti-
Apartheid activism as currency, exploit their connections in business and politics to accumulate
wealth. This phenomenon underscores the persistence of social and economic disparities, even in a
democratic era. Comrade Q's actions, benefiting himself, family, and friends, highlight the existence
of a privileged few who manage to transcend their disadvantaged backgrounds while leaving others
behind.
The Link between History, Transition, Inequality, and Class:
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through EFT, credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying this summary from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller smartacademy1. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy this summary for R50,00. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
Can Stuvia be trusted?
4.6 stars on Google & Trustpilot (+1000 reviews)
79271 documents were sold in the last 30 days
Founded in 2010, the go-to place to buy summaries for 14 years now