Customer Reviews

An interesting, disturbing, thought-provoking read - By: , 11 Dec 2001
Genet's work is like a Pandora's Box; once you lift the lid there is almost no stopping what emerges. The Maids,in particular, is a fascinating & complex play that leaves the reader doubting their own personality: how far can a person be driven by the situation they find themselves in? The story of the two sister's plot to kill their mistress & their ceremonial role-playing of her is a dark & biting commentary on social roles. Anyone interestedin the issues raisedin Strindberg's Miss Julie will be equally interestedin the ritualistic aspect of two servants who believe they should be higherin their society.
Deathwatch follows as an equally provoking read. The plot takes placein the claustrophobic atmosphere of the prison cell & the three inmates. Genet's exploration of homo-erotic relationships are evidentin both of these plays masked by the examination of social roles. The inmates love & despise each other, & Genet explores the hierarchy of those confined to prison. To gain notoriety & respect of the other inmates it seems the ideal is to be the hardest & harshest criminal serving time.
Deathwatch is interesting to readin consideration of the playwright's biography; he spent much of his lifein & out of prison for petty thefts & the play is truthful & interesting.
The plays offer remarkable possibilities for staging & are also very interesting for those who enjoy reading plays & theatre literature.