Three Plays | Topics for Discussion & Projects

Three Plays Topics for Discussion

Research the life of the author of these plays, Eugene O'Neill. What aspects of his life can be seen as manifesting in the three narratives?

What are the similarities between the young sons in the three plays: Eben in "Desire ...," Gordon in "...Interlude," and Orin in "...Electra?" Consider both their essential characteristics and the circumstances of their upbringing that gave rise to those characteristics. Do you believe the playwright is making a thematic statement about the nature of being a "young son?" Also consider the author's biographical history. What aspects of his life and relationships might he have drawn upon to create the portrayals of these three characters?

Consider the essential nature of the central female characters in each of the three plays - Abbie in "Desire ...," Nina in "...Interlude," and Lavinia in "...Electra." In what ways are their characters and/or situations and/or actions similar? In what...
(read more)