Complete Plays 1920–1931 : Book Review

Eugene O’Neill’s "Complete Plays 1920-1931" is a remarkable collection that showcases the brilliance of his work during this period. Known for his ability to capture the complexities of human emotion, O’Neill's plays tackle deep themes with intensity and clarity.

This anthology includes some of O’Neill’s most iconic plays, such as "The Emperor Jones" and "Strange Interlude." "The Emperor Jones" is a gripping exploration of power, survival, and identity, while "Strange Interlude" is an innovative drama that delves into the psychology of its characters through soliloquies. O’Neill's talent for storytelling shines through in each play, bringing his vividly portrayed characters to life.

One play that particularly stands out in this collection is "Mourning Becomes Electra," a powerful adaptation of Aeschylus' trilogy "The Oresteia." O’Neill skillfully reimagines the ancient Greek tragedy in a New England setting, weaving a complex web of familial duty, guilt, and vengeance. The play's rich symbolism and O’Neill's masterful dialogue make it a truly captivating read.

What sets O’Neill's writing apart is his ability to create deeply flawed and incredibly human characters. Throughout the collection, we encounter a wide range of personalities, each battling their own internal struggles. O’Neill’s exploration of topics such as addiction, despair, and the search for purpose gives his plays a timeless quality that resonates with readers from various time periods.

"Complete Plays 1920-1931" provides a comprehensive overview of O’Neill's talent as a playwright. Whether you are a fan of classic drama or simply looking to delve into the works of one of America's greatest playwrights, this anthology is a must-read. O’Neill's ability to explore the human condition through his characters and his profound insights into the universal struggles of life shine through in each play, making this collection an invaluable addition to any literature lover's bookshelf.

What are readers saying?

Eugene O'Neill's collection of plays, "Complete Plays 1920-1931," has garnered varied opinions among readers. While some commend the collection for its profound exploration of human emotions and its portrayal of flawed yet relatable characters, others struggle to connect with O'Neill's writing style and themes. Overall, the book has an average rating of 3.85 stars out of 5.

Many readers appreciate O'Neill's ability to delve into complex human emotions and create profoundly flawed characters that resonate with audiences. They find depth and psychological insight in plays like "Desire Under the Elms" and "Strange Interlude." O'Neill's powerful and evocative language effectively conveys the intensity of the characters' experiences, leaving a lasting impact on readers.

On the other hand, some readers find O'Neill's writing style and themes challenging to engage with. Lengthy dialogues and introspective monologues can become tiresome and hinder the flow of the plays for these readers. Additionally, some struggle to relate to the characters and their experiences due to the specific time period in which the plays were written.

The collection is also praised for its exploration of societal issues and psychological complexities. Plays such as "The Emperor Jones" and "The Great God Brown" tackle themes of race, power, and identity, provoking thought and introspection in readers. O'Neill's ability to delve into the complexities of the human psyche is frequently highlighted, leaving readers with lingering questions and a desire for further reflection.

However, not all readers find the collection enjoyable or satisfying. Some feel that the plays lack a cohesive narrative and struggle to maintain their interest. Themes of despair, disillusionment, and tragedy, prevalent in O'Neill's work, prove to be too heavy for some readers, making it difficult for them to fully appreciate the plays.

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