Jacob Zuma

The Economist article that we read in class on Monday hints at a lack of sound leadership in South Africa as one of the underlying issues affecting the country today. Your task is to write a short analysis of Jacob Zuma as president. Mention 3 reasons why you think he is a good state president and 3 reasons why you think he is not. Look beyond the issues of his rape trial and his polygamy. Be sure to read parts of his inaugural speech as president to determine if he has delivered on his promises to the nation: http://blogs.timeslive.co.za/hartley/2009/05/09/jacob-zumas-inauguration-speech-full-text/ Post your response before our next class on November 7th.

Tsotsi - An examination of Township life in South Africa -

After viewing the film your task now is to write a film review based on what you saw. Be sure to focus on the following: 1. Describe life in the Alexandria township in which the film is set. 2. An attempt to explain how Tsotsi fits into modern South African life. 3. Contrast his life with that of the father of the taken child. Why do you think their lives took such different paths? 4. Mention if you think that Tsotsi was sufficiently reformed to re-enter life in a South African township by the end of the film. "Step out" of your own society with its morals and ethics, before answering this. 5. Mention how Gavin Hood (The director) could have made a better film for foreign audiences. 6. An overall impression of the film.