The Prisoner Who Wore Glasses

After reading the story, discuss how the ambiguous ending affects the themes and the overall meaning. Do you think the ending is hopeful or ironic? Why?

“The Prisoner Who Wore Glasses” explores the effects of apartheid through a fictional lens inspired by real life. Despite the end of apartheid in 1991, many of its systemic effects remain to this day. What discriminatory elements of Head’s story persist, despite the passage of time? What changed after the end of apartheid, and what change are still ongoing?

How does the theme of Community Versus Individualism affect Brille’s understanding of his human dignity and individuality? In what ways does his commitment to Span One detract or add to his character development?

Hannetjie is the first warder to assault the members of Span One. Why is this the case? Is Hannetjie inherently more brutal than the other warders, or is this connected to his indoctrination and childlike qualities?

Since the dialogue in the story is minimal, it is important to take note of what the characters say when they do speak. How would you characterize the nonverbal dialogue in the story? In what ways does verbal and nonverbal dialogue influence Brille’s character development? Support your answer with textual examples.

What is the significance of Span One being characterized as a single entity? How would the story be different if there were more significant characters other than Brille and Hannetjie? Would this detract or add to the themes and the narrative arc?

Head’s work has been characterized as transitional African literature. Compare and contrast “The Prisoner Who Wore Glasses” with the domestic themes of literature in the 1950s and 1960s and the political themes that came after. In what ways does Head’s story reflect these ideals? How does it stand apart from them?

What is Martha’s role in the story? What might she symbolize? How does she fit into the narrative besides giving backstory for Brille’s character development?