The Baptism Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

The Baptism Topics for Further Study

The play takes place during the early 1960s in New York City. If you were producing the play today, what changes would you make? Would you set it during contemporary times, or would you move the setting to another city? If you did change the play's time or place, how would you then change its content and language?

If you were asked to produce the play, who would you cast in the various roles? Would Baraka's instructions in the list of characters be helpful, or would you ignore them?

Why do you think Baraka chose to title the play as he did? Do you think The Baptism is a good title? Suggest three other possible titles.

Many critics have commented on Baraka's use of profanity in the play. What is your opinion of the language? Explain whether you think it is...
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