The Golden Age (play)

The Golden Age is a play written by Australian writer and playwright Louis Nowra. It is based on the story that Nowra heard from an academic about "a strange group of people in the wilds of South-West Tasmania just before World War 2". [Preface to "The Golden Age"]

Plot Summary

Morris Franc, a young engineer from Melbourne, is visiting Peter Archer, a friend, in Hobart. When the two go exploring in the Tasmanian wilderness, they stumble upon a family that has been isolated from the rest of society for several generations. During this meeting, a relationship develops between Francis and Betsheb, one of the newly found group. Upon returning to Hobart, they inform Peter's father, Dr. William Archer, of the 'tribe'. Dr Archer organises for their entry into civilised society.

However, with the advent of World War 2, the members of the tribe are placed in an asylum, and Peter and Francis are sent to Germany to fight. One by one, each member of the tribe dies, with the exception of Betsheb. Francis is eventually sent back to Australia, where, after being disillusioned by the events of war and the Australian attitude in general, he decides to live, with Betsheb, in the Tasmanian wilderness.

Themes

The play addresses many themes and ideas. The lost tribe has been seen as an allegory for the Tasmanian Aborigines, and indeed all Aborigines and indigenous people. The play also addresses the basis, and the flaws, of the Australian culture.

Notes