Australian dramas, such as David Williamson’s “The Removalists”, inclination to depend on stereotypes is not a weakness, but instead an opportunity to explore personal and societal issues. The inclusion of stereotypes within the play does not hinder the exploration of these issues, but instead deepens the audiences understanding and awareness. Through familiar roles, such as the ‘Oker’ identity, Williamson heightens the play, and allows a production to focus on the themes being explored. By using stereotyped characters in contrast with realistic characters and style, Williamson effectively comment on the faults of society without the distraction of character complexity.
The Oker character is used by Williamson as a tool to allow the …show more content…

Physical violence is a key issue in the play, and Kenny’s beating demonstrates how easily the violence can escalate. The fact that Ross mimics Simmonds expected violent attacks conveys Williamson’s message that violence breeds violence. The communication of this message is achieved clearly and concisely through the stereotypical relationship between Simmonds and Ross, the older generation teaching the younger.
As well as violence, abuse of authority is a key feature which productions of The Removalists effectively convey through use of recognisable characters. Throughout the play, the corruption of the police force is exposed through their self-serving actions, intimidation and shameless bullying, and the instigation of violent attacks. Williamson uses the character of Simmonds specifically to address the issue of authority and how it is abused in the police force, as well as to force the audience to question the role of authority figures in Australian society. Simmonds actions often contradict what he says, stating that self-bloody-control is the true test of manhood, yet he himself goes berserk and savagely attacks Kenny. The stereotype of Simmonds, a power hungry, maliciously out of control, control abuser not only highlights societal flaws, but is also a key component of the driving action in a production of The Removalists.
Sexism and sexuality is