MODULE CODE: ENG1501
ASSIGNMENT NO:03
UNIQUE NO: 650457
DUE DATE: 1 AUGUST 2023
ASSIGNMENT TOPIC: ESSAY
Introduction
Comrade Q is a minor character who plays a crucial role in reinforcing the theme of
history and transition of South Africa from Apartheid to a democratic state. He is
depicted as a former anti- Apartheid activist who uses his connections to gain
influence in business and politics, highlighting the rise of a new wealthy class in post-
Apartheid South Africa. This essay will examine Comrade Q's portrayal as a minor
character and how he reinforces the theme of history and transition, as well as how
this theme links to the theme of inequality and class.
Minor Character
A minor character is a supporting character in a work of fiction who is not the
protagonist or antagonist but plays a lesser role and does not take center stage in
the narrative but serves a crucial purpose in advancing the plot. Comrade Q
embodies this description, as he is not a major character in the novel, yet he
significantly contributes to the exploration of the book's themes.In Small Things,
Comrade Q is a minor character who appears only briefly but has a significant impact
on the narrative. Comrade Q's interactions with other characters provide insight into
the political and economic landscape of post-Apartheid South Africa.
Reinforcing the Theme of History and Transition Comrade Q reinforces the theme of
history and transition in Small Things by highlighting the complexities of South
Africa's transition from Apartheid to a democratic state. Frost's description of
Comrade Q as "the activist-turned-entrepreneur, the comrade-turned capitalist"