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18 pages 36 minutes read

Betrayal in the City

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1976

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Book Brief

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Francis Imbuga

Betrayal in the City

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1976
Book Details
Pages

80

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Kafira • Post-colonial era

Publication Year

1976

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Betrayal in the City by Francis Imbuga, set in the fictional country of Kafira, explores the deep struggles and suffering of ordinary citizens under a corrupt post-colonial government. The play begins with Nina and Doga grieving their child, killed in anti-government protests, and follows various characters wronged by those in power. Their attempts to seek justice are often futile, highlighting the bleak realities of a society where the powerful ignore the voices of the oppressed. The play includes themes of violence and loss.

Dark

Gritty

Mysterious

Challenging

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.6

367 ratings

79%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Francis Imbuga's Betrayal in the City is lauded for its sharp political commentary and compelling dialogue. The play is praised for exposing corruption and the struggles of postcolonial Africa, but some find its pacing uneven. Its relevance to contemporary issues makes it a thought-provoking read, though its dense themes may challenge some readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Betrayal in the City?

A reader who enjoys Betrayal in the City by Francis Imbuga would appreciate political drama, African literature, and themes of corruption and resistance. Fans of Chinua Achebe's A Man of the People or Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's A Grain of Wheat will find similar compelling social critiques and powerful storytelling.

4.6

367 ratings

79%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Boss

The president of Kafira, known for his harsh and autocratic leadership style. He prioritizes his own interests and displays a mix of arrogance and incompetence.

The distant cousin of Boss, driven by self-interest and willing to take extreme actions for personal gain. He is a symbol of greed and disloyalty in his political role.

An academic who remains silent to protect himself, known for his analytical mind. His survival strategy is to observe and wait for safer opportunities to express his views.

A woman who suffers trauma but showcases strength and intelligence. She is rational and able to calm others, prioritizing survival and strategic action in difficult situations.

The father of Jusper and the late Adika, representing the enduring presence of traditional beliefs in Kafira. His adherence to customs cannot change his tragic circumstances.

Doga's wife, whose response to adversity includes threats rooted in traditional beliefs. Her actions underscore her inability to alter the tragic fate of her family.

Regina’s landlord and a member of the entertainment committee, who becomes increasingly cautious after a colleague's death. He sees potential in supporting Jusper's cause against Boss.

Book Details
Pages

80

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Kafira • Post-colonial era

Publication Year

1976

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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