Symbols in Alistair Campbell’s “Anansi”

Julie Tagg| Think and Write for CSEC English

 The play cleverly incorporates the symbols of the Spider and Tiger to emphasize their notable strengths. The Tiger, as portrayed in the “Forest Stories”, is depicted as a “strong” and “bold” character akin to the white slave masters of the era. Meanwhile, the Spider, known as Anansi, is shown as a symbol of the African spirit, with his cunning, persistence, and resilience highlighted through his ability to “spin a web”. Through these symbols, the playwright seeks to underscore the power dynamics of the period, while also drawing attention to the remarkable resilience and resourcefulness of the oppressed people. Overall, the use of these symbols in the play serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of strength in the face of adversity.


Discover more from Think and Write for CSEC English A and B

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

One thought on “Symbols in Alistair Campbell’s “Anansi”

Leave a reply to What is symbolism in literature? – Think and Write for CSEC English A and B Cancel reply