Doris Lessing S No Witchcraft for Sale

Discussion Questions for Doris Lessing’s “No Witchcraft for Sale”

Respond to the following prompts with specific details.

Before Reading: What do you know about colonialism in Africa?

During Reading:

Who is Teddy? Who is Gideon?

What happens when Teddy scares the other little boy with his scooter? Who is this other boy? What does this tell us about race relations in this place?

How does Gideon react to this incident?

What happens when Teddy encounters the snake? How does Gideon react? Why?

What is the scientist’s motivation for wanting the drug?

What does Gideon finally do to satisfy the scientist? Why does he do this?

What is Gideon’s background according to the cattle boy?

After Reading: How does this story illustrate race relations in South Africa?

What is the theme of this story?