Ruined

A strong and fiercely-independent woman, Mama Nadi is described as “[a] madam, a businesswoman, attractive, early forties.” Mama Nadi’s past experiences, before she became the proprietor of the bar and brothel, are not described in detail, but by the end of the play, Mama Nadi is revealed to be as much a victim of sexual violence as the girls in her employment. She is at times cruel and selfish, seemingly obsessed with money and the success of her business, and yet, at other times, she displays extraordinary generosity and genuine vulnerability. Mama Nadi is desired by both Christian, the travelling salesman, who truly loves her, and by Commander Osembenga, the government leader who seems to admire Mama Nadi’s strength and natural confidence in the face of powerful figures like himself.

Angry, sullen, and aware of her seductive power over men, Josephine is described as “[o]ne of Mama’s girls, early twenties.” Josephine’s father was the chief of their village, so she still feels a pride and a sense of entitlement befitting her position as the chief’s daughter, even though she now works in a brothel. She enjoys a special connection with Mr. Harari, who frequents Mama Nadi’s bar and brings Josephine presents and promises of a fresh start elsewhere.