Susan Glaspell's Plays offers a compelling collection of dramatic works by a pioneering figure in American theatre. Glaspell, a novelist and journalist as well, challenges conventional narratives with plays that center women's experiences and perspectives. Most famously included is the one-act play Trifles, alongside its related short story, A Jury of Her Peers, both exploring themes of gender, justice, and rural life with sharp insight. These groundbreaking works, foundational to American drama and feminist theatre, transcend their time. Glaspell's keen observation of societal norms and her exploration of universal themes continue to resonate with modern audiences, making this collection a significant contribution to dramatic literature.
Review Plays
Let me tell you, I absolutely adore Susan Glaspell's Plays! I initially encountered her work in a college class, and I was instantly captivated. It’s not typically the kind of thing I gravitate towards, but the sheer brilliance of her writing completely won me over. I devoured the selections we read and immediately bought the whole collection for myself – something I rarely do!
What struck me most was Glaspell’s masterful use of seemingly minor characters. She uses them to build suspense, to subtly reveal crucial details, and ultimately, to become the unexpected heroes of the narrative. It's a truly unique approach to storytelling, and it keeps you guessing right until the very end. Each play unfolds with such grace and precision, leaving you both satisfied and wanting more. It was just a fantastic, engaging read—the kind that stays with you long after you've finished the final page.
My experience with Trifles, in particular, was even more profound. I'd already read the short story version, "A Jury of Her Peers," and I find it to be one of the most relevant and powerfully moving pieces of literature on domestic abuse I've ever encountered. The play adaptation, also in this collection, is equally brilliant. It’s not just about the horrifying abuse itself; it’s about the quiet, unwavering support women offer each other in the face of injustice. It's a testament to female solidarity and a stunning exploration of empathy and understanding. The way Glaspell portrays this dynamic is breathtaking, and it’s a story that should be read and re-read by everyone.
Beyond Trifles, the entire collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and political landscape of early 20th-century America, particularly from the perspective of women. Glaspell's writing transcends its historical context, though; her use of language is so precise and evocative that her plays resonate with modern audiences just as powerfully. She manages to craft stories that are both historically grounded and universally relevant, speaking to themes of justice, societal expectations, and the search for truth.
I joined a play reading group that tackled Trifles, and the experience only solidified my admiration for Glaspell’s work. The play is exquisitely written; subtle yet impactful, modern in its themes despite its age. It's a truly remarkable piece of theatre that deserves to be seen and performed much more often. In fact, I wish I could see all of these plays brought to life on stage!
So, if you're looking for a collection of plays that will challenge you, move you, and leave you pondering long after you've finished reading, then I wholeheartedly recommend Susan Glaspell's Plays. The fact that I received mine as a free Kindle download only added to the experience (though I was happy to purchase my own physical copy to have the pleasure of holding the book). Whether you read them for a class, as part of a book group, or simply for the pure pleasure of reading exceptional drama, you won't be disappointed. It's truly excellent and a collection I will undoubtedly revisit time and time again.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.5 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 220
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- Trifles
- Thc Outside
- The Verge
- Inhcritors
Preview Book
