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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 themesEngaging epic theatre styleRelevant social commentaryConfusing at timesSome 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
PublisherMethuen
Year2015
BindingKindle Edition
Edition1
Pages160
LanguageEnglish
ISBN-139781408160862
ISBN-101408160862
eISBN-139780413582409
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).
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Methuen · 2015 · 160 pp
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