Teacher Guide

The Island Lesson Plan

Introduction to The Island

The Island, written by Athol Fugard, John Kani, and Winston Ntshona, takes place in South Africa during the apartheid era on an unnamed island. The two protagonists, John and Winston (played by the co-writers of the same name), are political prisoners that have been incarcerated for their anti-apartheid acts--Winston burning his passbook and John's affiliation with an anti-apartheid organization.

The play captures the day-to-day life of Winston and John in their cell and while doing heavy manual labor. The two share intimate stories about their childhood and families, and reflect on the events that led to their incarceration. For much of the play, John and Winston work together to stage...

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