Ti-Jean and his Brothers

Mark Jeremiah

May 16, 2011

Eng 15

Ti-Jean and his Brothers Blog

            "Ti-Jean and his Brothers" is a Caribbean folktale by Derek Walcott written in 1958. The protagonist Ti-Jean, short for Tiny Jean, is the youngest of three brothers, each of which challenges Papa Bois/the planter/the devil, the antagonist of this play. The play takes place on the island of Trinidad near a forest. The theme of "Ti-Jean and his Brothers" is an ancient one, good triumphing over evil, but also common sense triumphing over 'brute/dumb' strength and even fancy 'book' intellect (which is seen as a white pastime). Ti-Jean embodies the native inhabitants; the play reinforces those values important to their island community. The central conflict deals with three brothers coming of age and trying to make their way in the world using a gift each one possesses. What makes these brothers unique is that their adversary is the devil himself and failure is NOT an option! Failure is sudden death; no second chances. Gros-Jean-or big Jean, has the gift of physical strength. Mi-Jean- or middle Jean, has the gift of intelligence from 'book smarts'. Ti-Jean- or tiny Jean isn't especially equipped with any specific talent, however he has the good sense (common sense) to ask his mother AND the forest animals for advice; something his older brothers didn't think, or didn't care to do. (His brothers actually blatantly snubbed the forest creatures) Ti-Jean's humbleness and down-to-earth personality won his family riches and saved his own life.