The Hairy Ape
Eugene O'Neill
Publisher: Good Press
Summary
This is an expressionist play by Eugene O'Neill. It explores the themes of identity, social class, and industrialization. The protagonist, Yank, is a beastly labourer who searches for belonging in a world dominated by the wealthy. After a traumatic encounter with a steel tycoon's daughter, Yank's mental state deteriorates, leading to an animalistic confrontation with an actual ape. This play is a timeless classic that delves into the human condition and the impact of societal structures on individual lives. It also depicts the complexities of identity, class struggle, and the effects of industrialization on the working class.