The play Dead White Males, written by David Williamson, is set in Australia during the 1990s and explores two major theoretical ideologies, liberal humanism and post modernism, within an Australian cultural setting. Through the use of narrative and dramatic conventions, Williamson’s portrayal of Australian culture supports dominant assumptions concerning the qualities and characteristics that encapsulate what it means to be an Australian. The culture and structure of Australian relationships, tertiary education and workplace is portrayed in the play, and, through the use of characterization, stage directions and plot, Williamson is seen to support the assumption that men are assertive, Australians are laidback and are hardworking when fulfilling …show more content…
Throughout the play, in the majority of relationships, the male is the dominant figure who initiates and is in control of the relationship. For example, Steve and Swain are seen to “make the first move” and initiate a relationship with Angela “You like movies?...Like to come to come to one?” (page 19) and “are you free tonight?” (page 31) Also, the progress of Monica’s relationship is demonstrated to rely on the choice of the man, “I think it’s absolutely tragic that you spent eighteen years waiting around for a bastard who by the sound of it never had any intention of leaving his wife”(page 6) which, demonstrates the male’s authority in both his marriage and affair. The situation also portrays Monica as being passive and helpless because she is described as have to “wait” for the male and is evidently being used by him. Through characterization, Martin is seen to take a passive position in his relationship with Sarah “I’m a certified wimp” (page 7) and as a result of his tentative and unobtrusive nature he is resented by Sarah. “You resent dad for not having a job?...Is it that obvious?” and “he could of held onto his job if he had have been a bit more confident and tenacious.” (page 48) Evidently, through the character of Martin and the portrayal …show more content…
The tertiary education system in Australia is presented in the play as having has two modes; a lecture, where the figure of authority with superior knowledge shares his understandings, and a tutorial, where the students participate in discussion, bringing forward differing thoughts and thereby must be conscientious of the opinions of others. This portrayal of culture demonstrates Australians as being laidback and understanding of other’s views and ideas about the world. Opposing to this representation, however, the stage directions “Swain is showing every sign of becoming unhinged…continues to twitch as the rage and resentment boils up inside him” and “semi-hysterical” (page 71) depict the character of Swain being unable to control his anger towards those who don’t share his perspective and opinions. In response to his arrogant character the audience feel antipathy towards him. Col, similar to Swain, is in situations that reflect the modes of university; he has an opportunity to share is knowledge and is also in a position where is juniors voice their own opinions about his principles and conduct in life. In contrast to Swain however the stage directions “Col looks at his wife, but says nothing” (page 7) and “Col remains impassive” (page 11) Col demonstrates an ability control