Dennis Kelly: DNA- Modern prose and drama – November 2021

How does Kelly use the character of John Tate to explore ideas about good and bad leaders?
Write about:

• what John Tate says and does
• how Kelly uses John Tate to explore ideas about good and bad leaders.

John Tate, a character in Dennis Kelly’s play DNA, serves as a vehicle for exploring themes regarding effective and ineffective leadership. Tate provides as a contrast to Phil’s persona, who is portrayed as a more capable and morally upright leader, through his actions and conversation.

John Tate is introduced early on in the play as a dominant and cunning figure who controls the group through intimidation and fear. He is quick to assert his authority and belittle those who question his leadership, as seen when he dismisses Richard’s suggestion of going to the police:

“John: No one’s going to the police, Richard. We’re not doing that. It’s up to us,