Character: Andy McChuckemup

Character: Andy McChuckemup

Overview

• Andy McChuckemup is a fictional character in The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black, Black Oil who embodies the spirit of capitalism and greed.
• McChuckemup is not designed to be an individual character but is emblematic of the corporate raiders in the age of oil discovery in the North Sea.

Character Traits

• McChuckemup presents as a ruthless and profit-driven character, showcasing the negative aspects of capitalism.
• His lack of empathy for the less fortunate, especially the Highlands people, is a significant characteristic that allows him to exploit others for monetary gain uncaringly.

Role in the Play

• McChuckemup is one of the antagonists of the play, representing the modern wave of corporate exploitation in the Highlands.
• His presence underscores the theme of economic exploitation, and his actions directly lead to the continued oppression and displacement of the Highlanders.

Relationship with Other Characters

• Andy McChuckemup’s relationship is largely antagonistic with most of the other characters, emphasizing the conflict between highlanders and corporations.
• His dealings with the Highlanders are characterized by oppression and manipulation, indicating the power dynamic and inequalities that arise from capitalistic exploits.

Significance

• McChuckemup’s character highlights the continuity of Economic Exploitation in the Highland, from the Clearances to Oil discovery.
• He is crucial for the play’s wider social commentary, symbolising the ongoing exploitation of the natural resources of the Highlands and its people.