ESSAYS

Tsotsi is influenced to undergo a process of personal development by his encounters

with certain characters. In an essay of 350-400 words, discuss the impact of Boston, the
baby and Morris Tshabalala on Tsotsi's growth in the novel.
In the novel “Tsotsi” by Athol Fugard, the protagonist goes through a remarkable personal
developmental journey. This is influenced by his encounters with Boston, the baby, and
Morris Tshabalala, who all play significant roles in shaping Tsotsi's growth. Through these
interactions, Tsotsi experiences immense changes in his moral compass, emotional
development and his understanding of power and empathy.

Initially, Boston, a loyal friend of Tsotsi, plays an important role in Tsotsi's moral
transformation. He is the embodiment of decency in the gang and insists that “everybody’s
got a soul” when questioning Tsotsi’s sense of decency. Boston’s impact on Tsotsi is clearly
seen when he beats him up for disturbing his “inward darkness”. Plagued by the sudden rush
of emotions and provoking questions that cloud his mind, Tsotsi runs away from the
situation, leading to the discovery of the baby in the bluegum trees. When Boston becomes
aware of Tsotsi’s predicament, he challenges Tsotsi’s thought processes and he is forced to
confront the moral implications of his choices. This leads him to re-evaluate the path that he
has chosen to follow. Tsotsi later seeks Boston’s advice and “nurses” him back to health after
the beating. Boston teaches Tsotsi that “everyone is sick” and that Tsotsi is truly “asking
about God.” This information contributes greatly to Tsotsi’s growth.

Secondly, the presence of the baby in Tsotsi's life plays an important role in his emotional
development. Initially, Tsotsi sees the baby as an obstacle to his criminal lifestyle. However,
as he spends more time with the baby, he develops a sense of responsibility and care.Tsotsi's
decision to provide food and shelter for the baby demonstrates his growing willingness to put
others' needs before his own. Tsotsi also names the baby David, after himself, which reveals
his need for family and the fact that he is embracing his lighter side. The baby's innocence
and vulnerability causes Tsotsi to understand the importance of nurturing and protecting life,
contrasting with his previously hardened personality. His ultimate development is shown
when he dies trying to save the baby’s life.

Lastly, Morris Tshabalala, a disabled man whom Tsotsi encounters, challenges his
understanding of power and teaches him what empathy is. Morris's determination to live
despite his disability inspires Tsotsi. His refusal to be defined by his disability causes Tsotsi
to question his own sense of power. He begins to realise that strength lies not only in being
physically dominant, but in overcoming personal challenges. Tsotsi realises that he “feels”
for Morris and therefore decides to spare his life, showing his newfound understanding of the
value of each life and his ability to choose life over death.This simple act signifies Tsotsi's
growth and the beginning of his rejection of a life fueled by violence.

In conclusion, Boston, the baby, and Morris Tshabalala each play a crucial role in Tsotsi's
growth in the novel. Boston's loyalty prompts Tsotsi to question his actions and re-evaluate
his behaviour. Furthermore, the baby's presence awakens Tsotsi's sense of responsibility,
leading to a transformation in his priorities. Morris challenges Tsotsi's perception of power
and teaches him to be empathetic towards others. Through these encounters, Tsotsi undergoes
a profound journey of growth that leads to his redemption.
(533 words)

Explain in a detailed essay of 350-400 words the transformation that took place in
Tsotsi immediately after the baby comes into his life. Consider what he was like before
and after, as well as his thought process when he examines why he did not kill the baby
when it was shoved into his hands.
In the novel “Tsotsi” by Athol Fugard, the introduction of the baby into Tsotsi's life marks a
pivotal moment of transformation. This essay will explore the profound changes that occur in
Tsotsi's character immediately after the baby comes into his life by examining his initial
mindset, his refusal to kill the baby and the subsequent thought process that shapes his
personal growth.

Initially, Tsotsi's character is depicted as callous and devoid of empathy.

Prior to the baby’s arrival, Tsotsi is a ruthless criminal leading a gang, engaging in violent
acts without remorse. He shows little concern for others and lives a life driven by self-
interest, guided by his “inner darkness”. Tsotsi's violent encounter with Gumboot Dhlamini
highlights his lack of empathy and compassion towards others.Tsotsi's detachment from
humanity is a reflection of his traumatic past and the harsh realities of his environment.
Tsotsi's emotional numbness allows him to navigate the streets and maintain control over his
gang.

However, the turning point occurs when Tsotsi is unexpectedly thrust into the role of caring
for the baby. Initially, Tsotsi views the baby as a burden to his criminal lifestyle. Therefore,
Tsotsi's decision to spare the baby's life marks a significant departure from his previous
actions and signifies a breaking point in his journey. A glimmer of humanity and a shift in his
character is shown as he begins to question his actions and the moral implications of taking
an innocent life for the first time. The baby acts as a catalyst for Tsotsi’s self discovery by
unlocking his repressed memories. This is crucial for Tsotsi’s understanding of who he is and
what he stands for.

Additionally, Tsotsi engages in a profound thought process that initiates his personal growth.
Tsotsi begins to examine various emotions and thoughts that were previously foreign to him.
Tsotsi's decision to care for the baby by providing it with food and protection demonstrates
his evolving sense of responsibility and compassion for others. The presence of the baby
changes Tsotsi's outlook on life, prompting him to re-evaluate his past actions and seek
redemption.

In conclusion, the arrival of the baby in Tsotsi's life sparks a profound turning point in his
life, shifting him from a callous criminal to an individual capable of empathy. Through
introspection, Tsotsi undergoes a complete transformation, challenging his own humanity and
embarking on a path of redemption. The change that takes place in Tsotsi's character
emphasises the power that innocence and compassion have to transcend darkness and inspire
personal growth.
(416 words)
When the novel opens, Tsotsi's life is filled with fear. This changes during the course of
the story, as he learns the value of love and trust. Discuss the theme of fear in 350-400
words as it relates to some or all of the following aspects of the narrative: the fear that
Tsotsi has for his father, the fear of the Apartheid authorities, the fear among the pipe
children, the fear provoked by the gang, Boston's fearlessness in challenging Tsotsi,
Tsotsi's fear of remembering, Tsotsi's love for the baby and the development of trust for
Miriam.
In the novel “Tsotsi” by Athol Fugard, fear is a central theme that is evident throughout the
narrative. However, as the story unfolds, Tsotsi undergoes a profound transformation,
learning the value of love and trust. This essay will explore the theme of fear in relation to
Tsotsi's fear of his father, his fear of remembering his past, his love for the baby and his
development of trust for Miriam.
Firstly, Tsotsi's early life is consumed by fear, stemming from his troubled relationship with
his father. Tsotsi’s mother Tondi was a very loving and compassionate woman who created
the picture of a perfect and caring father in Tsotsi’s mind before his arrival. However, the
man who returned to Tsotsi was far from what he had expected and the image that Tsotsi
initially had of his father is completely shattered. The aggressive tone that he used to call for
Tondi and the physical abuse that he inflicted upon a pregnant yellow dog right before his
young eyes resulted in intense fear being formed within him. This fear causes Tsotsi to run
away from home to avoid being at the mercy of such a violent man and shapes Tsotsi's future
mindset, driving him to live a life of violence and isolation. His fear of authority figures and
the trauma from his past contribute to his guarded and closed-off nature as a criminal.

Additionally, Tsotsi harbours a deep fear of remembering and the emotional baggage
associated with it. This fear acts as a barrier, preventing him from fully understanding and
addressing his childhood traumas. He even develops 3 life rules to avoid dealing with his
memories: “the rule of the working moment”(always having his knife on him), “never to
disturb his inward darkness”, and to tolerate no questions. He chooses to live by these rules
because he does not want to face the feeling of abandonment by his mother or the abusive
behaviour of his father.

Finally, Tsotsi's interactions with the baby and Miriam introduces him to the transformative
power of love and trust. As he cares for the baby, a profound love develops, helping him
overcome his fear of remembering the past and creating a sense of responsibility.
Simultaneously, Tsotsi's interaction with Miriam, who is very accepting, allows him to
experience some level of trust and vulnerability in a way he has never known before.
Unfortunately, he feels as though Miriam cannot be fully trusted with the baby and it
ultimately leads to the demise of Tsotsi and the baby.

Fear permeates Tsotsi's life and the society he lives in, shaping his actions and relationships.
Tsotsi’s father and his suppressed memories serve as the main sources of fear in his life.
However, the development of trust with Miriam and Tsotsi’s love for the baby breaks down
his emotional barriers, enabling him to forge a path towards redemption and personal growth.
In Tsotsi, the exploration of fear serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power
of love, trust, and compassion in overcoming adversity.
(501 words)
In a detailed essay of 350-400 words critically assess the following statement: Tsotsi is
the story of one man's redemption from numbness and moral indecency. In your
discussion you may refer to the role of Boston, the baby, childhood memories, the
church/God and Miriam.
In the novel “Tsotsi” by Athol Fugard, the redemption of a hardened criminal from emotional
numbness and moral indecency is explored. Throughout the novel, Boston, the baby and
childhood memories play an important role in Tsotsi's transformative journey.

Firstly, Boston plays a crucial role in Tsotsi's redemption journey. After Gumboot Dhlamini’s
senseless murder, Boston explains to him that because of his “decency”, he felt “sick” to his
stomach. He questions Tsotsi relentlessly about his past and his sense of decency because
according to him, “everybody’s got a soul.” Boston challenges Tsotsi's worldview, urging
him to confront his actions and strive for a better life. Throughout their friendship, Tsotsi
begins to question his moral compass and seeks redemption. Boston’s fearlessness, loyalty,
and unwavering belief in Tsotsi's potential influenced the start of his transformation.
Secondly, the presence of the baby plays an important role in Tsotsi's redemption. Tsotsi's
encounter with the baby unearths his buried emotions and awakens his capacity for love and
compassion for someone else’s distress. The baby becomes a symbol of innocence and purity
in his life, evoking a sense of responsibility in Tsotsi. The baby also helps Tsotsi to remember
his childhood days and process what had happened to him, enabling him to restore his
identity as David Madondo. Caring for the baby draws Tsotsi away from his life of crime.
This results in Tsotsi’s attempt to reflect on his own actions and seek a path towards
redemption.

Furthermore, Tsotsi's childhood memories contribute to his journey of redemption.

Tsotsi's recollections of his own troubled childhood allow him to confront the trauma and
pain that shaped him. The memories of having a loving mother and the traumatic events
before and after the killing of the yellow dog of his youth help Tsotsi to understand how he
had become the man that he was. This introspection prompts him to break free from the cycle
of violence and numbness.

In conclusion, the redemption of a hardened criminal from emotional numbness and moral
indecency is the central message of the novel. Through the roles of Boston, the baby, and
childhood memories, Tsotsi embarks on a transformative journey and Boston is forced to
challenge his worldview and morality. Additionally, the baby awakens Tsotsi’s capacity for
love and empathy. His childhood memories bring forth self-reflection and healing from his
broken past. Together, these factors contribute to Tsotsi's gradual transformation, allowing
him to break free from his previous state of numbness and moral indecency and embrace a
path of redemption and personal growth.
(418 words)
In a detailed essay of 350-400 words discuss how Athol Fugard explores the theme of
human decency and morality through the following characters: Tsotsi, Miriam, Boston
and Morris Tshabalala.
In the novel “Tsotsi” by Athol Fugard, the complex theme of human decency and morality is
explored through its diverse characters. Throughout the novel, Tsotsi, Miriam, Boston and
Morris Tshabalala exemplify and challenge notions of morality and human decency.

Firstly, Tsotsi undergoes a transformative moral journey, exploring the depths of human
decency. Initially, Tsotsi engages in criminal activities without remorse, reflecting his lack of
morality. However, through his encounters with the baby and the influence of Morris
Tshabalala and the baby, Tsotsi begins to question his actions and seek redemption. In both
cases, he is confronted with his ability to be compassionate towards others and his actions
become more morally grounded. For the first time, Tsotsi understands the value of human life
and that he has a choice not to kill, hence his decision to spare the lives of Morris and the
baby. His transformation highlights the potential for human decency even in the face of moral
corruption.

Secondly, Miriam symbolises the qualities of Ubuntu throughout the novel. Miriam shows
unconditional love and support towards Tsotsi and the baby. Her character serves as a moral
compass that challenges Tsotsi to confront his actions and find his humanity. An important
principle that she teaches Tsotsi is that “tomorrow comes and you got to live”. She shows
Tsotsi that he must not remain stuck in the past, but should rather live for the future and what
he has. Her actions highlight the power of compassion and empathy in maintaining human
decency and morality.
Thirdly, Boston exemplifies moral integrity and loyalty, contrasting with Tsotsi's initial lack
of decency. Boston remains steadfast in his friendship with Tsotsi, despite the criminal
activities they both engaged in. This is seen through his consistent involvement in the gang’s
activities, despite the fact that he felt “sick” afterwards, particularly after the senseless
murder of Gumboot Dhlamini. This moral conviction prompts Boston to question Tsotsi’s
morality, which starts the transformative journey that leads to Tsotsi’s redemption. His
character emphasises the importance of integrity and loyalty in maintaining human decency.

Lastly, Morris Tshabalala serves as a contrast to the characters who embody human decency
and morality. As a victim of the Apartheid working system and healthcare system, Morris is
very angry at the world after incurring his disability. It is only when he feels like his life is
threatened by Tsotsi’s presence that he begins to value his existence. Morris is so grateful to
Tsotsi for sparing his life that he feels he must “give this strange and terrible night something
back.” The only thing that he can offer Tsotsi is to say that “mothers love their children.”
Despite being bitter about his disabled body, Morris still finds it within himself to be decent
and kind in his demeanour.

In conclusion, Athol Fugard skillfully explores the theme of human decency and morality
throughout the novel. Tsotsi's moral journey from moral indecency to redemption, fueled by
the influence of Boston and Miriam, showcases the transformative power of compassion and
empathy. Miriam embodies the essence of human decency and Boston's loyalty and integrity
serve as a stark contrast to Tsotsi's initial lack of morality, highlighting the importance of
moral values. Conversely, Morris Tshabalala represents the destructive consequences of
moral corruption. Collectively, these characters highlight the complexities of human morality
and serve as a powerful reminder of the choices individuals make and their impact on societal
well being. ( 565 words)
"All agreed that his smile was beautiful, and strange for a tsotsi, and that when he lay
there on his back in the sun, before someone had fetched a blanket, they agreed that it
was hard to believe what the back of his head looked like when you saw the smile." In
an essay of 400 words discuss how this statement is symbolic of Tsotsi's life.
In the novel “Tsotsi” by Athol Fugard, the description of Tsotsi's smile as "beautiful" and
"strange for a tsotsi" holds deep symbolic meaning. The description of Tsotsi's smile
represents a symbolic contrast within his character, revealing the dichotomy between his
violent criminal life and the potential for goodness and humanity hidden within him. This
essay will discuss the extent to which the smile and the damage to the back of Tsotsi’s head is
symbolic of his life.

Firstly, Tsotsi's smile contrasts with the perception of a typical tsotsi, hinting at an underlying
complexity.The description emphasises the beauty and strangeness of his smile. This contrast
highlights the dual nature of Tsotsi's character, suggesting that there is more to him than
meets the eye. It implies the presence of hidden depths and the potential for transformation
and redemption.

Furthermore, Tsotsi’s smile symbolises the new life that Tsotsi intended to live and his desire
to leave his dark past behind.Tsotsi tries to redeem himself by sparing the lives of the baby
and Morris, as well as nursing Boston back to health after savagely beating him. The helpless
baby in particular helps Tsotsi to focus his attention on having something of his own for
which he is solely responsible. The smile on his face in his dying state shows that he was no
longer filled with sadness and felt a sense of duty to protect the baby with his life. It is
surprisingly through his death that Tsotsi finally finds redemption.

Thirdly, the mention of the back of Tsotsi's head alludes to a hidden aspect of his life and
experiences. The back of Tsotsi's head symbolises the obscured aspects of his past, which
have shaped his present identity. The life that Tsotsi initially knew as a child is completely
ripped away from him by his mother being taken away in a police raid and witnessing his
father contributing to the death of a yellow dog. His life is torn apart like the back of his
head, symbolising the death of his former life. The trauma and pain that he carries from these
experiences contribute to his criminal lifestyle.
In conclusion, the statement describing Tsotsi's smile as “beautiful and strange” holds
significant symbolic meaning. It represents the unexpected beauty and goodness hidden
within Tsotsi's hardened persona. The strangeness of his smile serves as a contrast to societal
expectations, showing how truly complex his character is. Furthermore, the mention of the
back of Tsotsi's head symbolises his troubled past and the struggles he carries.The symbolism
of Tsotsi's smile and the mention of the back of his head intends to invite readers to look
deeper into the layers of his character and clearly see the both the darkness and the goodness
within him. Ultimately, Tsotsi’s smile is a powerful symbol of hope that makes the reader
reflect on the potential of redemption for every individual.
(481 words)
PARAGRAPHS - DECENCY
Tsotsi
The character development of the protagonist, Tsotsi, revolves around the central theme of

decency. Initially, Tsotsi is portrayed as a hardened and ruthless gang leader, who leads a life

of crime and violence in the townships of Johannesburg. His actions are driven by a disregard

for human life and a deep-seated anger stemming from his troubled past. However, as the

events of the novel unfold, we witness a gradual transformation in Tsotsi's character,

influenced by a series of encounters that challenge his worldview. The catalyst for Tsotsi's

character development comes in the form of an incident where he finds himself caring for a

defenceless infant. Taking responsibility for the baby forces Tsotsi to confront his own

humanity, as he grapples with the idea of nurturing a life rather than taking it away. This

newfound responsibility serves as a turning point, planting the seed of decency in Tsotsi's

heart. Throughout the novel, Tsotsi's interactions with other characters further propel his

transformation. He forms a bond with Miriam, a woman living in poverty and struggling to

raise her own child. Through their relationship, Tsotsi begins to comprehend the hardships

faced by others and starts to develop empathy. Miriam becomes a symbol of maternal care

and goodness, acting as a moral compass for Tsotsi's journey towards decency. Additionally,

Tsotsi's encounter with a disabled man named Morris exposes Tsotsi to the vulnerability of

others and challenges his perception of strength and power. The theme of decency is fully

realised when Tsotsi takes steps to right the wrongs he has committed. He intends to give the

baby to Miriam near the end of the novel despite his own attachment to it, showing that he

wants what is best for the child. In doing so, Tsotsi acknowledges his own capacity for

decency.

Boston
Boston's character development is connected to the theme of decency. Boston is introduced

as one of Tsotsi's gang members, sharing in the life of crime and violence in the township.
However, as the events of the novel progress, Boston undergoes a significant transformation

that challenges his previous notions of morality. After being an accessory to the violent

murder of Gumboot Dhlamini, he starts questioning the morality of his gang’s actions and the

consequences of their violent deeds. This internal struggle pushes Boston to confront his own

conscience, eventually leading him to break away from Tsotsi's gang and seek a different

path. As Boston distances himself from the gang, he starts seeking a chance to make amends

for his past actions. He demonstrates genuine remorse for his involvement in the gang's

crimes and seeks to change his ways. His character development showcases the potential for

individuals to reevaluate their choices and find decency within themselves, even after being

entrenched in a life of violence and immorality.

Butcher
Butcher's character is a representation of the absence of decency and he is the epitome of

cruelty and violence. As a member of Tsotsi's gang, Butcher personifies the darkest aspects

of human nature, showing no remorse for his brutal actions. Throughout the novel, Butcher's

character remains consistent in his lack of decency, which serves as a powerful contrast to

Tsotsi's evolving transformation towards goodness. Butcher's actions are driven solely by the

thrill of inflicting pain on others. His inhumane behaviour is symbolic of the dehumanising

effects of a life immersed in crime and violence. While Tsotsi undergoes a profound

transformation and begins to grapple with his actions, Butcher remains unrepentant over his

wicked ways. His consistent lack of decency emphasises the importance of Tsotsi's character

development, highlighting the potential for both good and evil that exists within individuals.

Butcher's character ultimately serves as a reminder of the destructive consequences of

embracing violence and cruelty.

Morris Tshabalala

Morris Tshabalala's character highlights the theme of decency in even the most morally

compromised individuals. Morris initially appears as a reclusive and bitter figure, haunted by

his past and resentful of his life in the township. However, as the story unfolds, Morris
undergoes a transformation that challenges his hardened exterior and reveals a core of

decency within him. At first, he appears to be an isolated and resentful individual, displaying

a reluctance to engage with others in the community. However, as Tsotsi crosses paths with

Morris, their interactions become a crucial turning point in both characters' lives. Through his

conversations with Tsotsi, Morris begins to confront the ghosts of his past and the deep-

rooted pain that he carries. His bitterness and resentment start to thaw, revealing a more

compassionate and empathetic side. As Morris shares his own tragic past with Tsotsi, he

becomes a source of wisdom and insight for the young gang leader. Morris's character

development highlights the power of human connection and the potential for healing through

genuine interactions with others.

Miriam

Miriam's character development serves as an exploration of the theme of decency and the

transformative power of love and compassion. Miriam is a young woman living in poverty,

struggling to raise her own child while also caring for the baby that Tsotsi brought into her

life. Initially, Miriam appears as a vulnerable character, burdened by the harsh realities of her

circumstances. However, as the story progresses, Miriam undergoes a profound

transformation that showcases her inherent decency and inner strength. Miriam's decency is

evident in her willingness to care for Tsotsi’s baby despite the risks and challenges it poses.

She takes on the responsibility of nurturing the child, showing immense love and compassion

in an unideal situation. Through her interactions with Tsotsi, Miriam becomes a catalyst for

his character development. As Tsotsi spends time with Miriam and the baby, he begins to

witness the struggles and hardships faced by those he has harmed through his criminal

actions. Miriam's presence helps humanise the victims of Tsotsi's gang, challenging him to

confront the consequences of his actions and reconsider his path.

David (the baby)

The baby serves as a symbol of innocence and the potential for decency in a world marked by

violence and cruelty. After being abandoned by its mother, the baby becomes the focal point

of the story, igniting a transformative journey for Tsotsi. The baby’s presence challenges
Tsotsi’s notions of decency and morality. As Tsotsi is thrust into the role of caregiver for the

infant, he is compelled to grapple with a sense of responsibility and empathy he had

previously suppressed. Throughout the novel, the baby symbolises the possibility of goodness

residing in the darkness of the township. The baby’s innocent presence challenges the Tsotsi

to reevaluate his choices and actions, urging him to find decency within himself.

PARAGRAPHS - REDEMPTION

Tsotsi

The character development of Tsotsi revolves around the theme of redemption. Tsotsi starts

the story as a hardened and ruthless gang leader, leading a life of crime and violence in the

townships of Johannesburg. The catalyst for Tsotsi's redemption comes in the form of an

incident where he ends up having to take care of a baby. Taking responsibility for the infant

forces Tsotsi to confront his own humanity, as he is confronted with the vulnerability of a

defenceless life. This newfound responsibility serves as a turning point in Tsotsi’s character,

planting the seed of redemption in Tsotsi's heart. Throughout the novel, Tsotsi's interactions

with other characters further propel his transformation. Tsotsi's encounters with characters

like Boston, a former gang member seeking to change his ways, contribute to his redemption.

Boston’s own change of heart and advising Tsotsi to “find God” has a significant impact on

Tsotsi. This causes Tsotsi to seek for answers within the church and find redemption for his

previously sinful lifestyle. Tsotsi’s relationship with Miriam teaches Tsotsi to live for what

one has and not to be stuck in the past. This enables Tsotsi to heal from his traumatic past and

work towards living as a redeemed man. The theme of redemption is fully realised when

Tsotsi takes steps to right the wrongs he has committed. This is ultimately shown when he is

willing to sacrifice his own life to save the baby in the ruins. His newfound regard for human

life is clearly displayed in this action, and although it does cost him his life, he dies a

redeemed man.

Boston
Boston's character development is tied to the theme of redemption. Boston is introduced as

one of Tsotsi's loyal gang members, participating in acts of violence and crime whilst battling

with his own sense of morality. As the novel unfolds, we witness a profound transformation

in Boston's character, as he grapples with his past actions and seeks a chance at redemption.

As Boston distances himself from the gang and seeks to make amends for his past, his

character undergoes a significant transformation. He starts to take responsibility for his

actions and actively seeks redemption through his efforts to reunite with his parents and tell

them the truth about what happened with his education. Boston's determination to do the right

thing reflects his growth as a character and his acceptance of a redemptive future.

Butcher
Butcher's character stands in stark contrast to the theme of redemption. As a member of

Tsotsi's gang, Butcher personifies the darkest aspects of human nature, revelling in violence

and cruelty without any remorse. Unlike Tsotsi and some of the other characters who undergo

transformations towards redemption, Butcher remains unrepentant and resistant to change

throughout the novel. Butcher embodies the antithesis of redemption, representing a character

who is not redeemed due to his complete lack of conscience and moral compass.

Morris Tshabalala

Morris Tshabalala's character development explores the theme of redemption. Morris is

initially introduced as a bitter and isolated man, haunted by his past. The catalyst for Morris's

redemption comes through his interactions with Tsotsi and the baby. Tsotsi initially torments

Morris, seeing him as an easy target for his cruelty. This causes Morris to realise that he

actually still wants to live. Through his conversations with Tsotsi, Morris begins to confront

the ghosts of his past and the deep-rooted pain that he carries. Morris's journey towards

redemption is a gradual realisation of his own capacity for change and growth.

Miriam
Miriam's character development explores the theme of redemption. Miriam is introduced as a

young woman struggling to survive in the township, burdened with the responsibility of
caring for her child while also unexpectedly becoming a caregiver to the baby that Tsotsi

brings into her life. Miriam's redemption arc is tied to her interactions with the baby and

Tsotsi. Despite the challenges posed by the sudden responsibility of caring for the infant,

Miriam exhibits a fierce determination to protect and nurture the child. Her commitment to

the baby and the compassion she shows towards it become a powerful catalyst for her own

redemption. Her own redemption begins when she accepts that her husband has most likely

passed away and that she needs to move on with her life. She realises that she needs to stop

living in the past so that she can heal and be the best mother that she can be to her child.

Own essay topic: In a detailed essay of 340-400, critically discuss each character’s road to

redemption and personal change, showing how they changed from the beginning to the end

In the novel, “Tsotsi” by Athol Fugard, the harsh realities of poverty, crime and the

transformative power of human connections is explored.Throughout the novel, each character

undergoes a profound journey of redemption and change. This essay critically examines the

transformative arc of Tsotsi, Miriam, Morris, and Boston, highlighting their development

from the beginning to the end of the novel.

Firstly, Tsotsi is portrayed as a ruthless gang leader devoid of empathy. Raised in a

dysfunctional environment, he is a product of his circumstances, engaging in violent crime

and showing no remorse for his actions. Tsotsi harbours great trauma from the apartheid

police raid that resulted in him being separated from his mother Tondi. After running away

from home, he turns to a life of a “Tsotsi” in order to survive. However, Boston’s continual

questioning serves as a catalyst for change as Tsotsi is forced to “disturb his inward

darkness” by confronting his past. This leads to the discovery of the baby under the blue-gum

trees. The baby, whom he later names "David," transforms his moral compass as he cares for

someone other than himself for the first time. Boston continues to influence Tsotsi’s

redemptive journey by telling him that he needs to find God to understand his new feelings.

This leads to Tsotsi’s interaction with Isaiah of the Church of Christ the Redeemer where he

learns more about who God is. He leaves the church feeling “unnaturally light” and embraces
his original identity as David Madondo. Tsotsi ultimately ends up dying trying to save

David’s life with a “smile” on his face, showing that the once hardened criminal had

eventually been redeemed.

Secondly, Miriam is a character initially portrayed as a weary woman burdened by her own

struggles. She is the embodiment of the selflessness and compassion that Tsotsi initially

lacked. Despite her hardships, she opens her home to Tsotsi and baby David, treating them

with kindness and understanding. She teaches Tsotsi to move on from the past because

“tomorrow comes and you got to live.” In doing so, she experiences her own redemption

from her past. After searching everywhere for her husband Simon, she finally accepts the

possibility that he might be dead. The acceptance of this possibility enables her to move on

with her life and be the best mother that she can be to her child.

Thirdly, Morris is a beggar who is crippled both physically and by his life experiences. He is

very bitter and resentful of having to live like “half a man.” It is only when Tsotsi targets him

that he realises that he still wants to live, even if his life is not ideal in his eyes. Through

conversing with Tsotsi, Morris teaches Tsotsi that he has options in life and has the revelation

that he still wants to feel the “warm stones of the streets” everyday. Morris saw his life in a

new light and even tried to give something positive back to Tsotsi by saying that “mothers

love their children.” Morris was ultimately redeemed from his previous bitterness and had a

newfound appreciation for his life.

Lastly, Boston, an educated member of Tsotsi’s gang, constantly had an internal struggle

between what was right and wrong. He aspired to become a teacher, but he had to drop out of

school due to a rape accusation. This resulted in him falling into the wrong crowd and

meeting the gang. After being beaten by Tsotsi for asking too many provoking questions,

Boston has a conversation with Tsotsi. Whilst he speaks, he realises that he needs to return to

the “fields of my youth.” This shows that he wanted to go back home and tell the truth about

everything that he has been through over the years. This symbolises the restoration and repair

of Boston’s past life, giving him an opportunity to start afresh.

In conclusion, a gripping story of redemption and personal change is presented. Tsotsi's

evolution from a callous gang leader to a compassionate caregiver, Miriam letting go of the

past, Morris's new appreciation for life, and Boston's desire to fix his past collectively

demonstrate the complexities of personal change. Ultimately, the development of these

characters serve as a reminder that redemption and personal change are achievable for those

willing to confront their past and embrace the potential for a brighter future.

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