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ENG 482: Poetics of Relation Research Guide: Madmen and Specialists

Prof. Flanagan

Play Information

Critical Takes from the Class

Aafaa is arguably the most terrorizing mendicant in the play, as he is a key perpetuator of the cycle of condescension and violence. The stage directions that first describe Aafaa encode a sense of repulsion directed towards him, but also his method of harnessing his disability for profit: “Aafaa’s St. Vitus spasms are designed to rid the wayfarer of his last pennies in a desperate bid to be rid of the sight”(Soyinka 217). He employs his disability as a means for survival, but at the expense of others. 

Taylor Pisel ‘14

PowerPoint Presentation

Taylor Pisel '14 and Coleman O'Neill '14 provide a powerpoint presentation on Madmen and Specialists. The presentation focuses on some brief historical information regarding the Theater of the Absurd, as well as major characters and themes in the play.

Outside Commentary and Analysis

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