Politics in 'The Good Woman of Setzuan': Retaliation Against Nazi Germany

Stacia Belcuore

Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation

College: College of Liberal Arts

Major: BFA.THEAPERF/MUSTHEA

Faculty Research Mentor: Emily Choate

Abstract:

"Politics in “The Good Woman of Setzuan': Retaliation Against Nazi, Germany" is an independent research project that explores theatre as a powerful form of resistance. Bertolt Brecht, a German playwright, poet, and director of Epic Theatre, uses his play, “The Good Woman of Setzuan,” to peacefully protest the fascist society of Nazi, Germany. The intent behind choosing a political play and political playwright was to highlight how divided our modern society has become in terms of doing what is good. “The Good Woman of Setzuan” follows Shen Te, a kindhearted prostitute who has been chosen by the gods to be the representation of goodness in a selfish society on earth. However, to remain good Shen Te must don an alter ego, posing as her cruel "cousin" Shui Ta to stay in control of her good fortune. The play leaves it up to the audience to determine if an individual can truly be good when surrounded by corruption. By examining Brecht’s play and his acting and performance theories, as well as scholarly criticism, it can be determined that Brecht’s use of dark humor, irony, and the two sides of greed within this play peacefully protest against the rising conflict of Nazi fascism, and emphasize the importance of staying vigilant and educated.