Political unrest is the occurrence of riots, strikes, protests and other forms of social discontent. It is a frequent and often cyclical phenomenon within all societies, and although its roots can be traced to a variety of issues, severe inequality remains one of the most potent and erratic drivers at the core of many instances.
Whether as a result of natural disaster, conflict or financial shock, people react with anger and frustration when they perceive that the government is not acting in their best interests. A wide range of responses can occur, including civil disobedience, protests, terrorism and even violent disorder. Unlike war, civil unrest is typically not defined by state boundaries and can occur at both the domestic and international level.
Dragun’s work reflects the importance of political unrest in society, and how individuals cope with the feeling of powerlessness when navigating a system that feels indifferent to their concerns. The protagonist’s transformation into a dog is an effective metaphor for how societal pressures and economic struggles can strip citizens of their identity, and highlight the need for societal change to combat injustice. The play’s setting during Argentina’s turbulent political climate in the 1950s also plays a critical role in its depiction of civil unrest, as well as the broader themes of absurdism and human resilience.