David Edgar
ESSAY QUESTIONS
Write an essay on the life and works of British dramatist David Edgar.
David Edgar: A British Dramatist's Life and Works
David Edgar is one of Britain’s most acclaimed contemporary dramatists, known for his
politically charged plays that explore themes of social justice, power, and identity. His works
often tackle complex political issues and examine the dynamics of power within societies.
Born in Birmingham in 1948, Edgar’s journey as a playwright has been marked by his
commitment to addressing topical issues, and he remains a significant voice in British theater.
Early Life and Education
David Edgar was born into a family with literary inclinations. His father, Barrie Edgar, was a
producer at the BBC, which exposed David to the world of storytelling and the performing
arts from a young age. Edgar studied drama at Manchester University, which further fueled
his interest in theater. During his time as a student, he became politically active, and the
social unrest of the 1960s and 1970s had a lasting impact on his perspectives and later
writings.
Career Beginnings and Political Influence
David Edgar began his writing career with a focus on politically engaged works, addressing
subjects like racial tension, social injustice, and class dynamics. His early plays, such as
Destiny (1976), drew attention for their bold approach to issues of race and nationalism in
Britain. Destiny examined the rise of far-right nationalism, showcasing Edgar’s skill in
dissecting socio-political topics through character-driven narratives. This play established
him as a serious voice in British theater, willing to confront challenging subjects head-on.
Major Works and Themes
Edgar’s most famous play, The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1980), adapted
from Charles Dickens’ novel, was commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC).
This adaptation is a monumental piece of theater, spanning eight hours and praised for its
intricate storytelling and faithfulness to Dickens’ social critiques. The play received
numerous awards and is considered one of Edgar’s masterpieces.
In Maydays (1983), Edgar explored the idealism of the 1960s and the subsequent
disillusionment felt by many activists as the world shifted politically. This play reflected
Edgar’s own evolving political outlook and provided a critique of both left-wing idealism and
authoritarianism. Edgar continued his exploration of political themes with Pentecost (1994),
which examines European history, identity, and cultural conflict in a post-Cold War setting.
Pentecost highlighted Edgar’s ability to weave together historical and contemporary issues,
challenging audiences to reconsider their views on nationalism, art, and cultural heritage.
Style and Techniques
David Edgar’s writing style is known for its intellectual depth and the complexity of its
themes. He employs realistic settings and character-driven dialogue to create an immersive
experience for the audience. Edgar’s works often feature large casts and multiple narratives,
as seen in Nicholas Nickleby, where he effectively uses ensemble casts to portray societal
conflicts. His approach to language is nuanced and insightful, encouraging audiences to think
critically about the political implications of the stories he tells.
Legacy and Influence
David Edgar has made significant contributions to British drama, with his work influencing
both audiences and other playwrights. His plays are regularly staged by major British
theaters, including the RSC and the National Theatre, and he continues to write, lecture, and
teach about theater and politics. Edgar’s commitment to political theater has helped shape the
landscape of contemporary British drama, inspiring future generations to use theater as a
platform for discussing complex social and political issues.
In sum, David Edgar’s life and works illustrate his dedication to political engagement through
drama. His ability to tackle difficult subjects with insight and sensitivity makes him a pivotal
figure in British theater, whose works continue to provoke thought and discussion among
audiences.
Discuss David Edgar as a greatest contemporary playwright.
David Edgar: A Leading Contemporary Playwright
David Edgar is widely regarded as one of the greatest contemporary British playwrights,
renowned for his socially conscious dramas that delve into themes of power, politics, and
identity. Over his prolific career, Edgar has used the stage as a platform for examining
societal structures and encouraging critical thought among audiences. His works, often
grounded in historical and political analysis, have earned him recognition as a significant
figure in modern theater.
Early Influences and Political Awareness
Born in Birmingham in 1948, Edgar’s formative years were shaped by the political and social
turbulence of the 1960s and 1970s. His father’s work as a BBC producer exposed Edgar to
storytelling from a young age, while his university years at Manchester opened his eyes to the
pressing political issues of the time, including racial tensions, class struggles, and the fight
for social justice. These early influences would inspire the themes that Edgar would continue
to explore throughout his career, marking him as a writer deeply concerned with the
intersection of politics and human experience.
Groundbreaking Works and Socially Engaged Themes
Edgar’s career as a playwright began in the mid-1970s with plays such as Destiny (1976),
which tackled the rise of right-wing nationalism in Britain. The play, exploring themes of
xenophobia and racial tension, resonated with audiences and established Edgar as a writer
unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths. His commitment to exploring social issues
solidified with The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1980), a groundbreaking
adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel. Commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company
(RSC), this eight-hour production remains a monumental achievement in theater, celebrated
for its elaborate staging and exploration of Victorian social issues that mirrored contemporary
problems.
In Maydays (1983), Edgar critically examines the political shifts from the idealistic 1960s to
a period of disillusionment. This play reflects his nuanced understanding of politics,
capturing the complexities of idealism and the subsequent realities of societal change.
Another landmark work, Pentecost (1994), centers on the fragmentation of Eastern Europe
post-Cold War, exploring themes of cultural conflict, nationalism, and identity. These plays
demonstrate Edgar’s ability to incorporate historical depth while maintaining relevance to
contemporary issues, a skill that sets him apart as one of the most intellectually ambitious
playwrights of his time.
Artistic Techniques and Intellectual Rigor
Edgar’s work is distinguished by his deep intellectual engagement and a layered approach to
storytelling. His plays often feature large ensemble casts, intricate dialogues, and multiple
narratives, as seen in Nicholas Nickleby, where these techniques create a dynamic portrayal
of social conflict. His use of character-driven dialogue and realistic settings creates
authenticity, allowing audiences to see themselves in the stories he tells. Additionally,
Edgar’s works frequently incorporate symbolism and allusions, enriching the theatrical
experience and providing layers of meaning that invite interpretation.
Legacy and Influence in Modern Drama
David Edgar’s impact on contemporary theater is far-reaching. His commitment to politically
engaged storytelling has inspired playwrights to use drama as a medium for exploring
pressing social and political issues. His works continue to be performed by major theaters,
such as the RSC and the National Theatre, and his contributions extend beyond the stage;
Edgar has also been active in teaching, lecturing, and writing about theater’s role in society.
His commitment to meaningful theater positions him among the greatest contemporary
playwrights, whose works encourage dialogue and critical thought.
Conclusion
David Edgar’s legacy as a contemporary playwright is defined by his fearless engagement
with political themes, his intellectual depth, and his innovative approach to drama. His
contributions to theater encourage audiences to examine their own beliefs and inspire future
playwrights to view the stage as a space for social reflection and change.
Sum up David Edgar's contributions to English Literature.
David Edgar’s Contributions to English Literature
David Edgar stands out as one of the most influential British playwrights of the late 20th and
early 21st centuries. Known for his deeply political plays and his ability to dramatize
complex societal issues, Edgar’s work reflects a keen awareness of history, class dynamics,
and cultural identity. His contributions to English literature, particularly through theater, have
positioned him as a leading voice for socially engaged drama.
Early Career and Political Foundations
David Edgar was born in Birmingham in 1948 and became politically active while studying
at Manchester University in the 1960s, a time of significant social change. His early exposure
to British media, as his father was a BBC producer, and his university experiences influenced
his understanding of social and political narratives. Edgar’s plays often tackle issues of class,
race, and power, marking him as a dramatist committed to exploring themes of social justice.
His formative years were marked by a sense of duty to expose and critique institutional and
societal injustices, a perspective that would shape much of his literary work.
Notable Works and Political Themes
Edgar first gained recognition with Destiny (1976), a play that examined the rise of far-right
nationalism in Britain. This work brought Edgar to prominence as a politically engaged
playwright and set the stage for a career focused on examining social and political issues. His
adaptation of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1980), based on the Charles
Dickens novel, remains one of his most significant contributions to English literature.
Commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), this ambitious eight-hour play
highlighted issues of poverty and social injustice in a way that resonated with modern
audiences, blending Dickensian themes with contemporary concerns.
Another landmark play, Maydays (1983), explored the fading idealism of the 1960s,
reflecting Edgar’s nuanced understanding of political ideologies. In Pentecost (1994), Edgar
tackled the complexities of post-Cold War Europe, touching on themes of identity,
nationalism, and cultural conflict. These works reflect Edgar’s gift for contextualizing
historical and political events within personal and emotional narratives, making them
accessible and thought-provoking for audiences.
Style and Techniques
Edgar’s writing style is characterized by intellectual depth and emotional resonance. His
plays are often large-scale, featuring multiple narratives and ensemble casts that bring to life
a variety of perspectives and social conflicts. Edgar’s dialogue is both realistic and insightful,
allowing characters to voice ideologies and viewpoints that contribute to the play’s thematic
complexity. His work is also known for its symbolic and allegorical elements, providing
audiences with deeper layers of interpretation. By blending realism with symbolism, Edgar’s
plays challenge audiences to engage with social issues critically.
Legacy and Influence on British Drama
David Edgar has made a lasting impact on English literature, particularly in the field of
drama. His work has inspired generations of playwrights to address complex social and
political themes in their writing. Edgar’s commitment to politically engaged theater has not
only enriched British drama but has also influenced theaters worldwide to embrace plays that
question, critique, and explore societal structures. Beyond the stage, Edgar has contributed
essays, lectures, and teaching that further emphasize the importance of theater as a means of
social critique.
Conclusion
David Edgar’s contributions to English literature lie in his dedication to using theater as a
platform for social change. Through his powerful storytelling, political engagement, and
commitment to exploring the human impact of societal issues, Edgar has cemented his place
as one of Britain’s most respected and influential contemporary playwrights. His legacy
endures as a testament to the power of drama in fostering reflection, dialogue, and change.
Write an essay on David Edgar's English plays Themes and Techniques in
about 500 words with sub headings
Themes and Techniques in David Edgar’s English Plays
David Edgar is celebrated for his politically charged plays that explore a wide range of social
issues, from nationalism and racism to idealism and disillusionment. His unique blend of
intellectual depth and engaging theatrical techniques makes him a significant figure in
contemporary English drama. Edgar’s plays serve as reflections of societal challenges,
encouraging audiences to question established norms and reconsider their perspectives on
politics, identity, and human nature. This essay explores the dominant themes and techniques
that characterize David Edgar’s body of work.
Themes in David Edgar’s Plays
1. Political Idealism and Disillusionment
A recurring theme in Edgar’s plays is the idealism associated with social change and the
subsequent disillusionment that often follows. Maydays (1983), for instance, explores the
idealistic revolutionary fervor of the 1960s and the disappointment that followed as political
ideologies shifted. In this play, Edgar dissects the journeys of activists who once believed in
radical change, showing how their views evolve and often become compromised with time.
This theme is particularly relevant to audiences grappling with the cyclical nature of political
movements and generational shifts in belief.
2. Identity, Nationalism, and Cultural Conflict
Edgar’s works frequently address the themes of identity and nationalism, often through the
lens of cultural and ethnic diversity. In Destiny (1976), Edgar examines the rise of right-wing
nationalism in Britain, portraying the dangers of xenophobia and racism. This theme
continues in Pentecost (1994), where he explores the complexities of post-Cold War Europe
and the resurgence of cultural conflicts. Through these narratives, Edgar encourages
audiences to question the basis of national identity and consider the impact of historical
grievances on modern-day conflicts.
3. Social Justice and Class Inequality
Edgar’s adaptation of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1980), based on Charles
Dickens’ novel, exemplifies his concern with class inequality and social justice. Through
Dickensian themes adapted for a contemporary audience, Edgar critiques the disparities
between the wealthy and the poor, calling attention to societal structures that perpetuate these
inequalities. The play, which emphasizes the struggles of the working class, remains one of
Edgar’s most powerful examinations of social justice.
Techniques in David Edgar’s Plays
1. Realistic and Multi-Layered Characters
One of Edgar’s strengths lies in his ability to create complex, realistic characters who
embody conflicting ideologies and perspectives. He often populates his plays with multi-
layered characters, each representing different social or political viewpoints. This technique
allows Edgar to present a balanced portrayal of contentious issues, avoiding one-dimensional
perspectives. By giving voice to diverse characters, he encourages audiences to engage with
the subject matter critically and empathize with various viewpoints.
2. Large Ensemble Casts and Multiple Narratives
Edgar’s use of large ensemble casts and interwoven storylines allows him to explore the
diversity and complexity of social issues. For instance, in Nicholas Nickleby, Edgar skillfully
manages an ensemble cast, enabling him to portray various aspects of Victorian society. This
technique not only adds depth to the play but also creates an immersive experience, as
audiences are drawn into the intricate tapestry of societal conflicts and individual struggles.
3. Symbolism and Allegory
Edgar often incorporates symbolism and allegory in his plays, creating deeper layers of
meaning. In Pentecost, for example, an abandoned church becomes a symbol for Europe’s
fragmented history and cultural tensions. These allegorical elements provide audiences with
thought-provoking visual cues that enrich the thematic content, encouraging them to reflect
on broader social and historical questions.
Conclusion
David Edgar’s themes and techniques make him a master of contemporary English drama.
His plays, driven by social and political concerns, use realism, allegory, and complex
characterizations to invite audiences into dialogues about identity, justice, and the nature of
societal change. Through these methods, Edgar continues to make a lasting impact on the
landscape of British theater, inspiring audiences and playwrights alike to view drama as a
powerful tool for examining and questioning the world around them.
PARAGRAPH QUESTIONS
Write short notes on David Edgar's life and works in English literature in
about 200 words
David Edgar, born in Birmingham in 1948, is a renowned British playwright known for his
politically charged and socially aware dramas. Growing up in a family connected to the
media—his father was a BBC producer—Edgar was exposed early to narrative and social
issues. His time at Manchester University during the socially tumultuous 1960s shaped his
political consciousness, fueling his passion for activism through theater.
Edgar’s career took off with Destiny (1976), a play examining the rise of right-wing
nationalism in Britain. His adaptation of Charles Dickens’ The Life and Adventures of
Nicholas Nickleby (1980) for the Royal Shakespeare Company remains a milestone in British
theater, bringing Victorian social themes into a contemporary light. In Maydays (1983) and
Pentecost (1994), Edgar explored issues of ideological disillusionment and cultural conflict,
engaging audiences in dialogue on topics like nationalism, class struggles, and social justice.
Known for his large ensemble casts and symbolic settings, Edgar’s work balances emotional
intensity with intellectual depth. His lasting impact on English literature stems from his
ability to tackle complex political and social themes, inspiring audiences to critically examine
contemporary issues through the lens of theater.
Give an account of David Edgar's plays in about 200 words
David Edgar is acclaimed for his thought-provoking plays that delve into social, political, and
cultural themes. His first major success, Destiny (1976), examines the rise of nationalism and
far-right ideology in Britain, signaling Edgar’s commitment to exploring timely and
controversial subjects. This early work set the stage for his career as a politically engaged
playwright.
In 1980, his adaptation of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby for the Royal
Shakespeare Company brought Dickens’ exploration of social inequality to contemporary
audiences, using theater to address class disparities and injustices. This adaptation remains
one of the most celebrated achievements in modern British theater.
Edgar continued to tackle complex themes in Maydays (1983), a play about political idealism
and the disillusionment that often follows. In Pentecost (1994), he explored post-Cold War
European tensions through a multi-layered narrative that symbolized the struggles of identity
and nationalism. His later works, including The Prisoner’s Dilemma (2001), investigate
themes of conflict resolution and diplomacy, drawing from historical and current events.
Known for his ensemble casts and layered storytelling, Edgar’s plays combine intellectual
rigor with accessible narratives, making him a prominent figure in contemporary British
theater and a major contributor to English drama.
Give a list of English Plays written by David Edgar
Here is a list of notable English plays written by David Edgar:
1. Destiny (1976) – Explores themes of nationalism and the far-right in Britain.
2. The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs (1978) – Based on the true story of a South African
anti-apartheid activist.
3. Mary Barnes (1979) – Co-written with Mary Barnes, it tells the story of a former
psychiatric patient.
4. The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1980) – A renowned adaptation of
Charles Dickens’ novel for the Royal Shakespeare Company.
5. Maydays (1983) – Examines the idealism and eventual disillusionment of the 1960s
political movements.
6. Entertaining Strangers (1985) – A play about rural community life and change in
Dorset.
7. That Summer (1987) – Focuses on a group of strangers at a country house on the eve
of World War II.
8. The Shape of the Table (1990) – Examines the fall of Communist regimes in Eastern
Europe.
9. Pentecost (1994) – A story set in Eastern Europe, dealing with nationalism and
cultural conflict.
10. The Prisoner’s Dilemma (2001) – Explores issues of peace negotiations and conflict
resolution.
11. Playing with Fire (2005) – A drama about race relations and political tensions in a
fictional Northern English town.
12. Testing the Echo (2008) – Looks at immigration and citizenship tests in Britain.
These plays reflect Edgar’s range, tackling themes like social justice, political conflict, and
personal transformation, making him a major figure in contemporary English theater.
Assess David Edgar as a British Playwright
David Edgar stands out as one of Britain’s most influential playwrights, known for his keen
ability to tackle pressing political and social issues through theater. With a career spanning
several decades, Edgar has established himself as a playwright deeply concerned with the
dynamics of power, ideology, and social change. His works, often based on historical events
or current social tensions, invite audiences to confront complex issues, making him a vital
voice in contemporary British drama.
Political and Social Engagement
From the beginning of his career, Edgar has been committed to exploring the political
landscape of Britain. Plays like Destiny (1976) address the rise of right-wing extremism,
while The Shape of the Table (1990) examines the fall of communist regimes in Eastern
Europe. This commitment to topical relevance gives Edgar’s work a lasting significance, as
he tackles subjects that resonate with the socio-political atmosphere of both past and present.
Edgar’s work often brings underrepresented perspectives to the stage, giving voice to
marginalized communities and viewpoints often overlooked in mainstream media.
Intellectual Depth and Complex Characters
One of Edgar’s strengths lies in his ability to create intellectually challenging narratives
without alienating audiences. His characters are complex and multidimensional, embodying a
range of ideological perspectives. For example, in Maydays (1983), Edgar explores the clash
between radical leftist idealism and the disillusionment that followed as political ideologies
shifted. Through these well-rounded characters, Edgar encourages empathy and critical
engagement, allowing audiences to confront diverse perspectives within the same play.
Innovative Dramatic Techniques
Edgar is also known for his use of large ensemble casts, multi-narrative structures, and
symbolic settings. His adaptation of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1980)
remains a landmark in British theater for its ambitious scope and masterful handling of
Dickensian themes through innovative staging and character work. This approach allows
Edgar to create a rich tapestry of narratives that capture the complexities of society, making
his plays both challenging and engaging.
Influence and Legacy
David Edgar’s influence on British theater is profound. His works have inspired generations
of playwrights and actors, encouraging them to view theater as a platform for political
discourse and social change. Edgar’s engagement with the Royal Shakespeare Company and
his significant adaptations have also contributed to the cultural landscape, making classic
works relevant to contemporary audiences.
Conclusion
As a British playwright, David Edgar has made an indelible mark on contemporary theater.
His politically charged narratives, rich characterizations, and innovative techniques make him
one of Britain’s most compelling and thought-provoking dramatists. Through his plays,
Edgar has helped redefine the role of theater as not just a form of entertainment but as a
powerful medium for social and political reflection.
Write short notes on David Edgar's Themes and techniques in his plays in
about 200 words
David Edgar’s plays are known for their focus on political, social, and ideological themes. A
prominent feature of his work is the exploration of political power and its effects on society,
as seen in Destiny (1976), which examines the rise of nationalism, and The Shape of the
Table (1990), which delves into the collapse of Eastern European communism. Edgar also
explores issues like class conflict, race relations, and cultural identity, often using historical
events or contemporary social tensions as a backdrop. His work frequently highlights the
struggles and aspirations of marginalized groups, adding a socially critical dimension that
challenges audiences to think deeply about justice and equality.
Edgar’s techniques reflect his ambitious storytelling. He uses large ensemble casts and multi-
layered narratives, creating plays that feel broad in scope yet intimate in character
exploration. His adaptation of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby showcases his
skill at handling complex storylines with emotional depth. Edgar’s works are also known for
symbolic settings and dialogue that interweave personal conflicts with broader political
commentary. Through these techniques, he encourages audiences to question and engage
with the themes of his work, making him one of Britain’s most influential contemporary
playwrights.
Short answer questions
1. Where was David Edgar born?
o David Edgar was born in Birmingham, England, in 1948.
2. Which play brought David Edgar national recognition?
o Destiny (1976) brought David Edgar national recognition for its exploration of
nationalism and political extremism.
3. What is the subject matter of David Edgar’s play The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs?
o It is based on the life of South African anti-apartheid activist Albie Sachs and
his experiences in prison.
4. Which of David Edgar's plays was an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel?
o Edgar adapted The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1980) for the
Royal Shakespeare Company.
5. What is the central theme of David Edgar’s play Maydays (1983)?
o Maydays explores political idealism, disillusionment, and the collapse of
1960s radical movements.
6. What kind of plays is David Edgar known for?
o Edgar is known for writing politically charged, socially relevant plays that
engage with historical and contemporary issues.
7. Which of David Edgar’s plays explores the post-Cold War tensions in Europe?
o Pentecost (1994) explores the cultural and national identity struggles in post-
Cold War Europe.
8. Which theater company did David Edgar collaborate with for his adaptation of
Nicholas Nickleby?
o He collaborated with the Royal Shakespeare Company for the adaptation of
Nicholas Nickleby.
9. What is the central issue addressed in The Prisoner’s Dilemma (2001)?
o The Prisoner’s Dilemma examines peace negotiations and the complexities of
conflict resolution.
10. Which major political theme does David Edgar tackle in his play The Shape of
the Table?
o The Shape of the Table addresses the disintegration of communism and
explores the challenges of post-communist Europe.
1. What is the central theme of David Edgar’s play Destiny?
o Destiny deals with the rise of political extremism, focusing on nationalism and
its societal impact.
2. Which play by David Edgar is based on the life of a South African anti-apartheid
activist?
o The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs is based on the life of Albie Sachs, a South
African activist imprisoned under apartheid.
3. What is the subject matter of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby?
o It is a stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel, focusing on the
protagonist's trials and tribulations in Victorian England.
4. In which play does David Edgar explore the impact of 1960s political movements
on society?
o Maydays (1983) explores the idealism and disillusionment surrounding 1960s
political movements.
5. What historical event forms the backdrop of David Edgar’s play Pentecost?
o Pentecost is set against the backdrop of post-Cold War Europe and explores
issues of nationalism and cultural identity.
6. Which of David Edgar’s plays deals with peace negotiations and political
conflicts?
o The Prisoner’s Dilemma (2001) is about peace negotiations and conflict
resolution in the context of global politics.
7. What theme does David Edgar address in his play Entertaining Strangers?
o Entertaining Strangers addresses the complexities of community life and
change in a rural English town.
8. In which play does David Edgar explore the moral dilemmas of post-apartheid
South Africa?
o The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs explores the moral complexities and personal
experiences of Albie Sachs during apartheid.
9. What is the central issue explored in That Summer (1987)?
o That Summer explores the tensions in a group of people at a country house on
the eve of World War II.
10. Which of David Edgar’s plays addresses the theme of national identity in a post-
communist world?
o The Shape of the Table (1990) deals with the collapse of communism in
Eastern Europe and the challenges of national identity post-communism.
1. What theme does David Edgar explore in Destiny?
o Destiny explores the theme of political extremism, focusing on nationalism
and its consequences on society.
2. Which play by David Edgar deals with the moral complexities of South Africa
during apartheid?
o The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs addresses the theme of political resistance and
moral dilemmas during apartheid in South Africa.
3. What central theme is examined in Maydays?
o Maydays explores the disillusionment with political movements, particularly
the collapse of the radical ideologies from the 1960s.
4. In Pentecost, what theme is central to the post-Cold War European setting?
o Pentecost examines the themes of cultural identity, nationalism, and the
consequences of the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe.
5. Which theme is explored in The Prisoner’s Dilemma regarding political
negotiations?
o The Prisoner’s Dilemma focuses on the theme of conflict resolution and the
complexities of peace negotiations in a global context.
6. What theme is explored through the character of Nicholas Nickleby in Edgar’s
adaptation of the Dickens novel?
o The play addresses themes of social justice, class disparity, and personal
growth in Victorian England.
7. In The Shape of the Table, what major theme does Edgar explore?
o The Shape of the Table delves into the theme of the breakdown of communism
in Eastern Europe and the political challenges that followed.
8. What is the theme of identity explored in That Summer?
o That Summer explores the theme of personal and national identity in the
context of the onset of World War II.
9. What societal theme does Entertaining Strangers tackle?
o Entertaining Strangers explores themes of community, change, and social
interaction in a small English town.
10. What theme does Edgar explore regarding moral choices and political ideology
in The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby?
o In the adaptation of Nicholas Nickleby, Edgar explores moral choices, justice,
and the struggle against oppression in Victorian society.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Where was David Edgar born?
o a) London
o b) Birmingham
o c) Manchester
o d) Edinburgh
Answer: b) Birmingham
2. Which play brought David Edgar national recognition?
o a) The Shape of the Table
o b) Maydays
o c) Destiny
o d) The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby
Answer: c) Destiny
3. What is the central theme of David Edgar's play Destiny?
o a) The collapse of communism
o b) Nationalism and political extremism
o c) The personal journey of a character
o d) The rise of radical feminism
Answer: b) Nationalism and political extremism
4. Which famous British company did David Edgar collaborate with for his
adaptation of Nicholas Nickleby?
o a) The National Theatre
o b) The Royal Shakespeare Company
o c) The Royal Court Theatre
o d) The Old Vic Theatre
Answer: b) The Royal Shakespeare Company
5. What political issue does Maydays (1983) explore?
o a) The collapse of the Soviet Union
o b) The rise of nationalistic movements
o c) Disillusionment with 1960s radical politics
o d) The struggles of post-apartheid South Africa
Answer: c) Disillusionment with 1960s radical politics
6. Which play by David Edgar is based on the life of South African activist Albie
Sachs?
o a) The Prisoner’s Dilemma
o b) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
o c) Pentecost
o d) The Shape of the Table
Answer: b) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
7. What major theme is explored in Edgar’s Pentecost?
o a) Post-Cold War cultural identity and nationalism
o b) The rise of corporate power
o c) Economic collapse and global trade
o d) Environmental issues
Answer: a) Post-Cold War cultural identity and nationalism
8. What year was The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby first staged?
o a) 1975
o b) 1980
o c) 1990
o d) 2000
Answer: b) 1980
9. What issue does The Prisoner’s Dilemma (2001) examine?
o a) The challenges of post-apartheid South Africa
o b) The complexities of peace negotiations and conflict resolution
o c) The impact of colonialism in Africa
o d) Environmental policy debates
Answer: b) The complexities of peace negotiations and conflict resolution
10. Which of David Edgar’s plays is set in the context of Eastern European political
changes after the fall of communism?
o a) Destiny
o b) The Shape of the Table
o c) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
o d) Maydays
Answer: b) The Shape of the Table
1. Which play by David Edgar is an adaptation of a Charles Dickens novel?
o a) Maydays
o b) The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby
o c) The Prisoner's Dilemma
o d) Destiny
Answer: b) The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby
2. Which play by David Edgar explores the themes of political extremism and
nationalism?
o a) Maydays
o b) The Shape of the Table
o c) Destiny
o d) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
Answer: c) Destiny
3. In which play does David Edgar explore post-apartheid South Africa?
o a) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
o b) The Shape of the Table
o c) Maydays
o d) Pentecost
Answer: a) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
4. Which of David Edgar’s plays deals with the rise of radical politics in the 1960s?
o a) The Shape of the Table
o b) The Prisoner’s Dilemma
o c) Maydays
o d) Entertaining Strangers
Answer: c) Maydays
5. In which play does David Edgar explore the cultural and political challenges of
post-Cold War Europe?
o a) Pentecost
o b) Destiny
o c) The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby
o d) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
Answer: a) Pentecost
6. What is the central issue in David Edgar’s play The Prisoner’s Dilemma?
o a) Economic collapse
o b) Conflict resolution and peace negotiations
o c) The collapse of communism
o d) The political role of the church
Answer: b) Conflict resolution and peace negotiations
7. Which David Edgar play examines the effects of communism’s collapse in
Eastern Europe?
o a) The Shape of the Table
o b) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
o c) Pentecost
o d) Maydays
Answer: a) The Shape of the Table
8. Which play by David Edgar is about a community facing social and political
changes during World War II?
o a) That Summer
o b) Entertaining Strangers
o c) The Prisoner’s Dilemma
o d) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
Answer: a) That Summer
9. Which play by David Edgar tackles the moral issues of South African resistance
during apartheid?
o a) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
o b) The Shape of the Table
o c) Pentecost
o d) Destiny
Answer: a) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
10. In which play does David Edgar reflect on the implications of living in a post-
apartheid world?
o a) Maydays
o b) The Shape of the Table
o c) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
o d) Entertaining Strangers
Answer: c) The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs
1. What central theme does David Edgar explore in Destiny?
o a) The power of love
o b) Political extremism and nationalism
o c) Social injustice
o d) Environmental concerns
Answer: b) Political extremism and nationalism
2. Which theme is explored in Maydays, particularly regarding radical politics?
o a) The rise of democracy
o b) Disillusionment with 1960s radical politics
o c) The power of the media
o d) Social reform
Answer: b) Disillusionment with 1960s radical politics
3. In The Shape of the Table, David Edgar focuses on which major political theme?
o a) The rise of capitalism
o b) The collapse of communism and post-Cold War European identity
o c) The effects of colonialism
o d) The nature of global trade
Answer: b) The collapse of communism and post-Cold War European identity
4. What does The Prisoner’s Dilemma address regarding international relations?
o a) The morality of war
o b) The impact of global capitalism
o c) Conflict resolution and peace negotiations
o d) Environmental policies
Answer: c) Conflict resolution and peace negotiations
5. Which theme is central to The Jail Diary of Albie Sachs, a play about apartheid?
o a) The exploration of racial identity
o b) The effects of economic inequality
o c) Resistance to apartheid and moral struggles
o d) The rise of African nationalism
Answer: c) Resistance to apartheid and moral struggles
6. In Pentecost, what theme does Edgar explore in the context of post-Cold War
Europe?
o a) The clash of cultures
o b) The impact of globalization
o c) Nationalism, cultural identity, and history
o d) Religious conflict
Answer: c) Nationalism, cultural identity, and history
7. What is the central theme in That Summer, set during World War II?
o a) The heroism of soldiers
o b) The political changes in post-war Europe
o c) The personal impact of war on ordinary people
o d) Social movements and change
Answer: c) The personal impact of war on ordinary people
8. What issue does Entertaining Strangers deal with?
o a) Environmental activism
o b) The nature of personal identity in a changing society
o c) The role of the media in shaping public opinion
o d) The impact of new technologies on communities
Answer: b) The nature of personal identity in a changing society
9. What political theme is explored in The Life and Adventures of Nicholas
Nickleby?
o a) The failure of the British Empire
o b) Social justice, class disparity, and personal growth
o c) The influence of religion on politics
o d) The rise of the industrial revolution
Answer: b) Social justice, class disparity, and personal growth
10. What overarching theme does David Edgar examine in many of his plays about
Eastern Europe?
o a) The impact of Western imperialism
o b) The fall of communism and the challenges of post-communist transitions
o c) The role of women in society
o d) The evolution of democratic governance
Answer: b) The fall of communism and the challenges of post-communist transitions
