Question

There are many themes in Fugard’s play. Consider the theme of how apartheid affects interracial relationships. Hally, because of his race, spits on Sam without any consequence, and thus breaks the boundaries of their friendship. Based on Hally’s character traits and Sam’s peace offering, what choice do you think Hally will make? Will Hally fall into his privileged position and close the door to Sam’s peace offering, or will he change and renounce discrimination?
In at least two hundred words, write an answer to these questions, supporting your essay using details from the play.

Answer 1

In the play, we see that Sam, Willie and Hally are normal people who get along. However, the first two are black, older men, while Hally is a seventeen-year-old white boy. This has serious consequences in South Africa during apartheid.

During apartheid, black and white people were separated, and they were not allowed to intermingle in any significant way. Moreover, white people were given preference in all matters. This plays a role in the play when Hally spits on Sam, even though they were meant to be friends. Hally is acting out of character, and he immediately regrets his actions. He was extremely upset due to his very complex personal problems.

However, this is a sign of superiority and racism, and it is something a friendship cannot tolerate. Although Sam eventually wants to fix things, Hally is too embarrassed to be friends with him again. I believe that the decision Hally will make is that of not being friends, as he is not a hopeful or positive person. He is more likely to fall into his privileged position and close the door to the friendship.