Before purchasing the course reader, I picked up a hardback copy of the 3-act version at the library. I will tell what I liked about each version. The first of the 3 acts gave a more thorough characterization of the husbands (one even went by a different name), and especially more detail of John and Harriet's affections. The one-act version, which is the original by Gerstenberg , dwelt more on the women's inner and outter selves. I found the whole concept very interesting. After all, doesn't every human have a primitive and a cultured side to them? Aren't most of us usually involved in a day-to-day struggle between what we want/need and what would be the appropriate way to act in order to get it?
I felt that this was a perfect script to read first, since a principle element of acting is knowing your objective and having each action follow as accordingly as possible. (I would say that, concentrating in performance). But themes aside, the dramaturgical choice in restructuring the plot into a three-act sequence was an interesting change. Gerstenberg's script leaves the reader with a different parting gift than the one I got from the library. The longer one is still about that most primitive of all traits: hunger. That undeniable hunger for food or financial security. However, Hetty's and Jack's (John's true self) inner selves contributed much more fodder for romantic ambivalence.
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteI may have to pick up the 3 act play myself. It sounds like its way more in depth and I found myself wanting to read more just to understand their motives. I am also curious about the role that the husbands played.I really like what you said about everyone having a primitive and cultured self and its a day to day struggle between what we need and want. I believe that that describes the plot as a whole and can even be applied to our day to day lives.
ReplyDeleteI like how this post is from September, and the fact that you read the entire three act play is awesome. I really should look into renting that from the library, because I liked this play! I like the point you made about how we all go about our day to day lives facing the inner struggle between what we want/need and how we go about doing that with interactions with others....especially women, the subconscious thoughts vs the conscious statements we make.
ReplyDeleteWell you went out of your way to read the entire three act. So right off the bat you're a way better student than I am. But it does sound interesting so I may have to give it a second chance and check it out. Right back to blog post. i like your take on humans primitive and cultural needs how it takes shape in the form of these two women. Who are both actively seeking to get what they want. Solid point that you can build a lot off of. Good work.
ReplyDelete