The Skin Of Our Teeth By Thornton Wilder
Introduction
The Skin of Our Teeth is a Pulitzer Prize-winning play written by Thornton Wilder. It was first performed in 1942 and has been a classic of American theater ever since. Wilder is famous for his innovative and experimental style, and this play is no exception. It is a unique blend of comedy, tragedy, and allegory, and it deals with some of the most profound issues of human existence.
The Plot
The Skin of Our Teeth is a three-act play that follows the Antrobus family, a typical American family living in New Jersey. The play covers a period of several millennia, from the Ice Age to the present day, and it deals with the struggles and triumphs of the human race.
The Antrobus family consists of Mr. and Mrs. Antrobus, their two children, Henry and Gladys, and their maid, Sabina. Mr. Antrobus is the inventor of the wheel and the alphabet, and he is a symbol of human progress. Mrs. Antrobus represents the domestic sphere and the values of family and community. Henry and Gladys are the typical rebellious teenagers, and Sabina is the temptress who tries to seduce Mr. Antrobus.
The Themes
The Skin of Our Teeth deals with a variety of themes, including the nature of human existence, the cyclical nature of history, the struggle between good and evil, and the role of the artist in society. The play also explores the relationship between individuals and society, and the importance of family and community in times of crisis.
One of the most important themes of the play is the idea that human beings are capable of surviving and thriving in the face of adversity. The Antrobus family faces numerous challenges throughout the play, including a devastating flood and a devastating war, but they always manage to overcome them.
The Characters
The characters in The Skin of Our Teeth are all archetypes that represent different aspects of human nature. Mr. Antrobus is the inventor and the symbol of progress, while Mrs. Antrobus represents the nurturing aspects of humanity. Henry and Gladys are the rebellious teenagers who represent the future, and Sabina is the temptress who represents the darker aspects of human nature.
The Style
The Skin of Our Teeth is a highly experimental play that uses a variety of theatrical techniques to convey its message. Wilder employs a non-linear narrative structure, with scenes from different time periods juxtaposed against each other. He also breaks the fourth wall, with characters speaking directly to the audience and acknowledging the fact that they are in a play.
Wilder also makes use of a variety of symbols and allegories to convey his message. For example, the Antrobus family is often compared to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, and the character of Sabina is reminiscent of the biblical character of Delilah.
The Reception
The Skin of Our Teeth was a critical and commercial success when it was first performed, and it has remained a classic of American theater ever since. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1943, and it has been staged countless times around the world. The play's innovative style and profound themes have made it a favorite of theater-goers and critics alike.
Conclusion
The Skin of Our Teeth is a unique and innovative play that deals with some of the most profound issues of human existence. It is a masterpiece of American theater, and it deserves to be seen and appreciated by anyone who loves great drama. Whether you are a theater-goer or a student of literature, The Skin of Our Teeth is a play that you simply cannot afford to miss.
