Essay Questions

Why did Sergeant Dan Simmonds take pictures of Fiona’s bruises?

Dan Simmonds was a sadist and a hypocrite. He was a policeman who arrested people for hurting others, while he failed to take care of his own family, wife and daughter. He enjoyed other people’s pain and when he heard that Fiona had marks on her thighs and her back, he was interested. Telling her that he would use the pictures for the case against her husband, Sergeant Dan took pictures for his own pleasure.

How is Kate Mason a reflection of Sergeant Dan Simmonds?

Kate Mason is the mirrored female image of Dan Simmonds. They both crave the feeling of power, which Dan utilizes in the new Constable Neville Ross, while Kate feels power over her sister Fiona Carter. Both are sadist and hypocrites, going against the things that are politically wrong, yet in the dark they both are unfaithful to their partners, who both loves them highly.

Why is the play called The Removalist?

The play as a whole is a representation of how the Australian playwright, David Williamson sees the Australian society, and each of the characters have their own part of the society. The removalist in the story, named Rob, represents the passive Australian. He has no role, except doing what he is told and running of to the next job. He represents the world that doesn’t question authority, even when wrong is being done.