The Suit Analysis

The Suit Written by Can Themba (1924 – 1967), a South African short story writer and journalist. His short stories and journalistic pieces reflect the shebeen culture and Sophiatown magic of the 1950s.

Summary The Suit is about a man called Philemon who is happily married but discovers that his wife, Matilda, is cheating on him. He makes her carry her lover’s suit everywhere and treat it like a visitor in their home. Because of his cruelty and her humiliation she eventually dies of a broken heart.

Third Person - omniscient Narrator Third Person - omniscient

Setting Philemon's home and Sophiatown, South Africa

Infidelity and forgiveness Theme Infidelity and forgiveness

Characters Philemon, Mathilda (Tilly), Maphikela, women on bus

Protagonist Philemon

Antagonist The Suit

Exposition Philemon's morning routine is explained. A warm, loving and secure atmosphere is created.

Development After bringing Matilda breakfast in bed, Philemon gets on the bus to go to work. Maphikela tells him about the man visiting Tilly. Philemon goes home, finds Tilly in bed with a man who flees out the window but leaves his suit behind. Suit becomes 'guest' and Tilly's punishment. A new ritual with the suit is established. Tilly slowly gets more bold as Philemons's behaviour settles and asks if she may join a cultural club. She eventually plans a big dinner party at their house.

Climax The dinner party where Philemon asks about the guest of honour.

Falling Action Matilda fetches the suit and tries to make as if it is a game. After dinner Philemon goes to bar with friends.

Conclusion Matilda commits suicide.

The Suit - Questions Where is The Suit set? Describe Philemon’s morning ritual. Who told Philemon about the infidelity? What role does this person play in Philemon’s life? What did Philemon do when he entered his house?

6. What was Tilly’s punishment? 7. Name TWO things that Philemon did that were abnormal that day. 8. Explain why the Sunday outing was humiliating to Tilly. 9. List all the preparations made for the dinner party. 10. How did the guests react to the Suit?