Accidental Death of an Anarchist

 Political play
 1970’s context – turbulent times (Italy)

Key Idea:
 No political belief system truly works – another way forward may be anarchy

Playwrights original intentions:

 Expose leadership / rulers or any organised structure as being potentially corrupt

 About hierarchy and challenging hierarchy
 Question your leaders, don’t just accept what you’re told

Genre / Style:
Political satire is a significant part of
 Political satire satire that specialises in gaining
 Slapstick comedy entertainment from politics, it has also
 Agit Prop Theatre (Agitate(d) Propaganda) been used with subversive intent
Context: where political speech and dissent are
forbidden by a regime, as a method of
1. When written (first performed) – 1970s advancing political arguments where
2. When set – 1970s such arguments are expressly
3. Today – 21st century forbidden.

Conventions:
Stereotypical (stock) characters
Parody
Songs
Treatment of topical (news) issues
Word play / puns
Use of direct address to the audience