(122)
Good Person of Setzuan (Manheim/Willett, trans.)
Bertolt Brecht
The Good Person Of Szechwan
by Bertolt Brecht trans John Willett
What readers are saying
Readers appreciate the thought-provoking themes and social commentary in the play, with many noting its exploration of the contradictions of being a good person in a flawed society. The epic theatre style and Brecht's distinctive writing have garnered respect, even as some express confusion about the narrative. Overall, the play resonates with audiences for its relevance and depth, but opinions vary on its execution and complexity.
Thought-provoking themes Engaging epic theatre style Relevant social commentary Confusing at times Some find it overly complex
Synopsis
Brecht's famous parable, written in exile in 1939-41, shows that in an unjust society good can only survive by means of evil.
In it, the gods come to earth in search of enough good people to justify their existence.
They find Shen Teh, a good-hearted but penniless prostitute, and make her a gift that enables her to set up her own business.
But her goodness brings ruin and she must disguise herself as a man in order to muster sufficient ruthlessness to survive.
Published in Methuen Drama's Modern Classics series, this edition features an introduction and extensive notes and textual variants.
Publication
Publisher Methuen
Year 2015
Binding Kindle Edition
Edition 1
Pages 160
Language English
ISBN-13 9781408160862
ISBN-10 1408160862
eISBN-13 9780413582409
The Good Person Of Szechwan is a German play written by Bertolt Brecht trans John Willett and published by Methuen (2015).
Digital editions available on Apple Books, Google Play (eISBN 9780413582409).
Community Reviews
No community reviews yet
Buy Play
Similar Plays
Plays with similar themes, style, and content.
![The Good Woman of Setzuan (Bentley) [Musical] Book Cover](https://assets.playwright.co/cdn-cgi/image/width=190,quality=75,format=auto/plays/covers/the-good-woman-of-setzuan-bentley-musical-eric-bentley.jpg)
More from Bertolt Brecht trans John Willett
More plays from Bertolt Brecht trans John Willett that we think you'll enjoy.
