Journal of Humanistic and Social Studies (Jul 2020)

Mahatma Gandhi and Conflict Resolution in “Master Harold”… and the boys

  • Mohammad Mehdi Saberi,
  • Samira Sasani

Journal volume & issue
Vol. XI, no. 1(21)
pp. 53 – 64

Abstract

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Apartheid South Africa is a perfect example of inequality and racial discrimination in the 20th century. Athol Fugard’s “Master Harold”… and the boys clearly depicts the colonialist ideology that existed during apartheid era. The aim of this study is to deal with Gandhi’s ideas about conflict resolution. Mahatma Gandhi sees non-violence as a solution. Athol Fugard’s “Master Harold”… and the boys is anti-colonialist, and this play also shows that those who have internalized their superiority and inferiority are more vulnerable to colonialist psychology. Fugard has suggested way of decolonialization is Satyagraha, which is a kind of non-violent resistance proposed by Mahatma Gandhi. Fugard’s suggested kind of resistance, as shown in the play, cannot be achieved through coercion. It is achieved by means of conversion.

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