Black Diggers by Tom Wright (“Upside down”)

“You see the world’s turned upside down” by Dr Jennifer Minter
A Resource Package of notes, essays and plans on Black Diggers. (PS This does not include a copy of the play.)

In Black Diggers, Tom Wright conveys the experiences of the indigenous servicemen who experience a world that is “turned upside down”, not simply because of the devastating violence and trauma of war.  As “every face” turns “brown” in the trenches of World War I, the indigenous soldiers experience a unique and liberating sense of belonging as they are no longer judged by the colour of their skin. Whilst many are empowered by their experiences at war, they also experience a sense of disappointment upon their return as they confront the racist policies of the white Australian Government. Throughout his vignette-style theatrical drama, Wright portrays the plight of the indigenous “diggers” and their determination to gain respect for their sacrifices. For many, their sense of pain and humiliation are palpable as they are constantly reminded of their inferior status.  For others, there is a glimmer of hope.

This Resource Package includes an in-depth analysis of the themes, characters and play-writing techniques in Black Diggers; paragraphs that are useful for essays; a list of the playwright’s views and values for topic sentences,  most useful quotes to learn, a sample essay and 10 essay plans.

Please note: this is not the play, but a set of resource notes.