Themes and message

Discrimination and prejudice

In Rosemund J. Handler's story “An Act of Vengeance, the theme of discrimination and prejudice is explored through the characters and the setting. In the story, Miss C. Bester is a white employer of a black maid after the end of apartheid in South Africa. Although Miss C. Bester claims that she and Pauline are equal and the country has changed, the woman’s attitude suggests she still has prejudices against black people.

Firstly, Miss C. Bester does not like being called by her name by Pauline, even though she asked Pauline to stop calling her “Madam”. Secondly, she buys a dishwasher which she does not allow Pauline to use because she thinks ‘people like her’ don’t know how. Thirdly, in the dialogue, she repeatedly scolds or offends Pauline. Finally, there are many hints that suggest the woman exploits Pauline by asking her to do everything in the house, including cleaning, cooking, and taking care of her child.

It can also be noted that Pauline also has prejudices about her employer, as indicated by the fact that she judges Miss C. Bester for complaining to her friends, for partying, and for seeing different men.

Finally, elements of the setting have symbolical functions ...