Origins of the Play
Joseph Kesselring: The Playwright
Joseph Kesselring was born on February 21, 1904, in New York City. He pursued a career in theater as both a playwright and director, with "Arsenic and Old Lace" being his most famous work. Kesselring's experiences and background significantly influenced the writing of the play. His interest in the macabre and the absurd, combined with his keen understanding of human nature, created a unique narrative that would become a staple of American theater.
Development and Premiere
- Initial Inspiration: Kesselring was inspired by a visit to a mental institution, where he encountered patients who exhibited bizarre behavior. This experience planted the seeds for the eccentric characters in his play.
- First Production: "Arsenic and Old Lace" premiered on January 10, 1941, at the Walter Kerr Theatre in New York City. The play received immediate acclaim and ran for 1,444 performances, solidifying its place in theatrical history.
Plot Overview
The play revolves around two elderly sisters, Abby and Martha Brewster, who are known for their charitable works in their neighborhood. However, their kindness hides a dark secret: they have been poisoning lonely old men as an act of mercy, believing they are helping them escape their suffering. The plot thickens when Mortimer Brewster, their nephew, discovers the truth and must navigate the chaos that ensues as more family members get involved.
Key Plot Points
1. Mortimer's Discovery: Mortimer, a theater critic, initially believes his aunts are simply kind-hearted. When he uncovers their murderous activities, he is horrified but struggles to reconcile his love for his aunts with the reality of their actions.
2. The Return of Teddy: Mortimer’s brother, Teddy, believes he is Theodore Roosevelt and is oblivious to the chaos around him. His antics add to the absurdity of the situation, as he digs graves in the backyard for the "Yellow Fever" victims he believes he is helping.
3. The Arrival of Jonathan: The plot intensifies with the arrival of Mortimer's other brother, Jonathan, a psychopathic criminal who has escaped from prison. He brings with him his accomplice, Dr. Einstein, a surgeon who has altered Jonathan's appearance. Their presence complicates Mortimer's attempts to manage the family's dark legacy.
Characters
The play's strength lies in its memorable characters, each contributing to the darkly comedic atmosphere.
Abby and Martha Brewster
- Abby Brewster: The more dominant of the two sisters, Abby is charming and persuasive, embodying the caring façade that hides her dark side.
- Martha Brewster: Equally endearing, Martha is more naive but just as complicit in the sisters' crimes.
Mortimer Brewster
- Mortimer is the protagonist, representing the audience's perspective as he grapples with his family's legacy. His character oscillates between comedic exasperation and genuine concern for his aunts.
Teddy Brewster
- Teddy provides comic relief with his delusions of grandeur. His belief that he is Theodore Roosevelt adds an absurd layer to the narrative, as he naively digs graves for the victims.
Jonathan Brewster
- The antagonist of the play, Jonathan is a stark contrast to his aunts. His violent tendencies and manipulative nature create tension and heighten the stakes for Mortimer.
Dr. Einstein
- An accomplice to Jonathan, Dr. Einstein serves as a foil to Mortimer, embodying the darker side of human nature. His misguided loyalty to Jonathan adds complexity to their criminal activities.
Themes
"Arsenic and Old Lace" delves into various themes that resonate with audiences, contributing to its ongoing relevance.
The Nature of Evil
- The play explores the idea that evil can exist beneath a veneer of kindness. Abby and Martha's benevolent intentions clash with their horrific actions, challenging the perception of morality.
Family and Loyalty
- Mortimer’s struggle to balance his love for his aunts with the need to protect society from their crimes highlights the complexities of family loyalty. The play poses the question: how far would one go to protect their family?
Sanity vs. Insanity
- The blurred lines between sanity and insanity are central to the play. Characters like Teddy and Jonathan represent various degrees of mental instability, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of human behavior.
Impact on American Theater
Enduring Popularity
- "Arsenic and Old Lace" remains one of the most frequently performed plays in American theater. Its clever dialogue, engaging characters, and dark humor resonate with audiences, ensuring its place in theatrical repertoire.
Film Adaptation
- The 1944 film adaptation, starring Cary Grant as Mortimer, introduced the play to a broader audience. The film's success further solidified the play's cultural significance and showcased its potential beyond the stage.
Influence on Future Works
- Kesselring's play has influenced countless writers and playwrights, inspiring works that blend comedy with darker themes. Its unique approach to storytelling has paved the way for other dark comedies in American theater.
Conclusion
"Arsenic and Old Lace" is a timeless classic that continues to entertain and provoke thought. Joseph Kesselring's masterful blend of comedy and horror invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of human nature, the meaning of family, and the nature of evil. With its memorable characters, clever writing, and enduring themes, the play remains a staple of American theater, captivating new generations of theatergoers. The Brewster sisters, Mortimer, Teddy, and Jonathan have all become iconic figures in the world of theater, ensuring that "Arsenic and Old Lace" will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Arsenic and Old Lace' about?
'Arsenic and Old Lace' is a dark comedy play by Joseph Kesselring that revolves around two elderly sisters who are charming yet sinister, as they poison lonely old men in their basement and serve them as wine to unsuspecting guests.
Who are the main characters in 'Arsenic and Old Lace'?
The main characters include Abby and Martha Brewster, the two elderly aunts, Mortimer Brewster, their nephew who discovers their secret, and Teddy Brewster, another nephew who believes he is Theodore Roosevelt.
When was 'Arsenic and Old Lace' first performed?
'Arsenic and Old Lace' premiered on January 10, 1941, at the John Golden Theatre in New York City.
What themes are explored in 'Arsenic and Old Lace'?
The play explores themes of madness, morality, and the juxtaposition of innocence and evil, all wrapped in dark humor.
How has 'Arsenic and Old Lace' been adapted outside of theater?
The play was famously adapted into a film in 1944, starring Cary Grant as Mortimer Brewster, which helped to popularize the story and its characters.
What is the significance of the title 'Arsenic and Old Lace'?
The title reflects the play's blend of the ordinary (old lace) with the sinister (arsenic), highlighting the contrast between the characters' seemingly genteel lives and their macabre activities.
Are there any notable performances of 'Arsenic and Old Lace'?
Notable performances include the original Broadway production featuring Boris Karloff as Jonathan Brewster and various revivals featuring popular actors in the lead roles.
What is the role of humor in 'Arsenic and Old Lace'?
Humor plays a crucial role in 'Arsenic and Old Lace', as it balances the dark content of murder and insanity with witty dialogue and absurd situations, making the play both entertaining and thought-provoking.
How has 'Arsenic and Old Lace' influenced popular culture?
The play has influenced popular culture through its memorable quotes, iconic characters, and its continued presence in revivals and adaptations, making it a staple in American theater.
What are some common interpretations of the character of Mortimer Brewster?
Mortimer Brewster is often interpreted as the everyman caught in a bizarre situation, embodying the struggle between societal norms and familial loyalty, while also serving as a vehicle for dark comedy.
