Read for JHU project.

This is an interesting examination of the insidious and unconscious brainwashing of apartheid that is delivered through the interaction between Hally and the servants Sam and Willie. Hally vacillates between wanting to be friends and insisting on respect. The author employs numerous biographical elements in this play. From his father's disability, which Hally callously dismisses as a "cripple", to his own relationships with black servants.

This play offers a profound exploration of the complex dynamics during the apartheid era. It shows how the social norms and prejudices of that time influenced the thoughts and behaviors of people, even those who seemed to have more liberal inclinations like Hally. The author's use of his own life experiences adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the story.

It also fulfills the PopSugar Reading Challenge 2019 requirement of being a book written by an author from Asia, Africa, or South America. This work not only entertains but also educates, making it a valuable addition to any reading list.

"Master Harold" and the Boys has been on my To Be Read (TBR) list for quite some time now. It has been sitting on the sidelines as I have delved into numerous other plays first. I must admit, I was a little hesitant at first. A white author writing about a white boy's complex emotions regarding racism - it made me raise an eyebrow, especially considering the play is forty years old and set thirty years before that. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how tactfully it handles these difficult subjects.

The protagonist, in many ways, feels more like Sam (portrayed by the remarkable Keith David in the audio version I listened to). We spend time following all three characters as the trauma that Hally is experiencing leads him to take out his feelings on Sam and Willie. They are convenient targets as Black servants to his family, and society has placed him in a position where this becomes an outlet for him. It is impossible not to empathize with Sam and Willie as they witness the boy they cared about grow into a man who represents the very essence of what is wrong with 1950s South Africa.

Hally, despite his cruelty, is surprisingly sympathetic. You can still see glimpses of the hurting young boy within the man who casually and virulently spews racist remarks at the only adults in his life who have truly cared for him. The literal and allegorical ballroom dancing conversations are some of the play's highlights, offering different perspectives on the world.

Is it a perfect play? No. But it is emotionally impactful and effectively shows how casual cruelty becomes ingrained in an apartheid society. There is great value in this play, and it is well worth the read. I will definitely explore more of Athol Fugard's works in the future. At the same time, I also look forward to experiencing more literature, including plays, from Black South African authors and playwrights.

This was an extremely interesting read. It wasn't something that I would typically have chosen to pick up on my own.

I read it together with my son, Dylan, as he had to read it for school.

The story is about a boy named Harold. While growing up, he has two very unlikely friends who are black waiters and work for his parents.

However, in the context of apartheid in South Africa, life can pose significant obstacles to even the best of relationships.

This book really made me do a lot of thinking. It presented a complex and thought-provoking situation that made me reflect on the impact of social and political systems on personal connections.

I believe that I will continue to think about the themes and ideas presented in this book for quite some time to come. It has left a lasting impression on me and has made me more aware of the importance of equality and acceptance in our society.

An old-fashioned play

that strictly observes the unities!

It is about a boy in South Africa

who discovers that he simply can't resist embracing his racist heritage.

The metaphors employed in the play are rather blatant,

sort of hitting you right over the head.

However, despite this, the play is actually quite good.

It delves deep into the complex issue of racism and heritage,

presenting a thought-provoking exploration.

The boy's struggle to come to terms with his racist background

is portrayed in a vivid and engaging manner.

Although the metaphors may seem a bit heavy-handed at times,

they do serve to drive home the important messages of the play.

Overall, it is a worthwhile piece of theater that offers valuable insights into a difficult and often overlooked topic.