Exploring the unique perspective of black Americans, this Companion delves into August Wilson's portrayal of their lives as both marginalized and central to the American narrative. It chronicles a century of history through Wilson's ten-play cycle, revealing how he celebrated a resilient community that shaped its future while acknowledging its roots. Each chapter offers insights into Wilson's life, career, and the broader context of his works, presenting an alternative historical narrative that resonates with both black America and an international audience.
Focusing on ten contemporary American playwrights, this exploration delves into their significant works and the influences that shaped them. The author, a prominent figure in American theatre, provides insights into the creative processes and thematic concerns of these playwrights, highlighting their contributions to the landscape of modern theatre. Through critical analysis, the book sheds light on the evolution of American drama and the cultural contexts that inform these influential voices.
This study offers a deep exploration of Arthur Miller's literary contributions, analyzing themes, characters, and the socio-political context of his plays. It delves into his unique narrative techniques and the moral dilemmas faced by his characters, highlighting Miller's influence on American theater and culture. Through critical analysis, the book sheds light on the complexities of his work and its relevance to contemporary issues, making it an essential read for students and enthusiasts of drama and literature.
Exploring the representation of the Holocaust, this book delves into how it has been portrayed in both theatre and fiction. It examines the various interpretations and memories associated with this historical tragedy, highlighting the artistic responses that shape public understanding and remembrance. Through a critical analysis of different works, the study reveals the complexities of conveying such profound themes in creative mediums.
Delving into the life of Arthur Miller, this biography explores the journey of one of the most significant modern playwrights. It highlights his influential works, personal struggles, and the impact of historical events on his writing. The narrative captures Miller's relationships, his reflections on society, and his enduring legacy in the world of theater, offering insights into the man behind classics like "Death of a Salesman" and "The Crucible."
Exploring the distinctive and often disturbing body of work by Neil LaBute, this comprehensive study delves into his unique contributions to theatre and film. Christopher Bigsby analyzes LaBute's darkly humorous narratives that reveal the cruelties and manipulative tendencies of individuals in a disconnected society. Each chapter focuses on specific works, while an interview with LaBute offers personal insights into his creative process and the controversies surrounding his influential career.
Television drama serves as a powerful medium for critiquing American politics, myths, and values, as explored by Christopher Bigsby. He delves into how this genre can challenge societal norms and provoke thought, highlighting its role in reflecting and shaping public discourse. Through insightful analysis, Bigsby examines the interplay between television narratives and cultural commentary, revealing the medium's capacity to influence perceptions and inspire change.
Arthur Miller and Company (1990): Arthur Miller Talks About His Work in the Company of Actors, Designers, Directors, and Writers
248 Seiten
9 Lesestunden
Arthur Miller engages in a deep conversation about his writing techniques and the moral and political themes present in his plays. He emphasizes the necessity of upholding human values in a society that often disregards them. This insightful dialogue, first published in 1990, reveals Miller's passionate advocacy for the significance of ethical considerations in art and life.
Focusing on the career of playwright David Mamet, this analysis highlights his role as a sharp social critic. It delves into how Mamet's work critiques an America deeply influenced by the myths of frontier individualism and competitive capitalism, revealing the underlying corruption in these ideals. Through this lens, the book explores the complexities of Mamet's themes and the societal implications of his plays.
This book is open access and available on www.bloomsburycollections.com. It is funded by Knowledge Unlatched. Many of the American playwrights who dominated the 20th century are no longer with us: Edward Albee, Arthur Miller, Sam Shepard, Neil Simon, August Wilson and Wendy Wasserstein. A new generation, whose careers began in this century, has emerged, and done so when the theatre itself, along with the society with which it engages, was changing. Capturing the cultural shifts of 21st-century America, Staging America explores the lives and works of 8 award-winning playwrights – including Ayad Akhtar, Stephen Adly Guirgis, Young Jean Lee and Quiara Alllegría Hudes – whose backgrounds reflect the social, religious, sexual and national diversity of American society. Each chapter is devoted to a single playwright and provides an overview of their career, a description and critical evaluation of their work, as well as a sense of their reception. Drawing on primary sources, including the playwrights' own commentaries and notes, and contemporary reviews, Christopher Bigsby enters into a dialogue with plays which are as various as the individuals who generated them. An essential read for theatre scholars and students, Staging America is a sharp and landmark study of the contemporary American playwright.
