Elmer Rice

Definition

Elmer Rice was an influential American playwright and novelist known for his contributions to expressionism in theater during the early 20th century. His works often depicted the struggles of modern life, using innovative techniques and a focus on emotional experience to challenge traditional narrative forms. Rice's plays, particularly 'The Adding Machine,' are notable for their exploration of alienation, identity, and societal criticism, embodying the spirit of expressionism in American drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elmer Rice was born in 1882 in Saginaw, Michigan, and became one of the key figures in American theater during the early 20th century.
2. His play 'The Adding Machine' premiered in 1923 and is often regarded as one of the first truly expressionist plays in American drama.
3. Rice's innovative use of language and stagecraft aimed to evoke emotional responses from the audience, moving away from conventional storytelling.
4. He was also a vocal advocate for social justice, often incorporating themes of class struggle and the impact of modernization on individuals into his works.
5. Rice's influence extended beyond the stage; he was involved in various literary movements and also wrote novels and essays that reflected his critical views on society.

Review Questions

• How did Elmer Rice's works reflect the characteristics of expressionism in American drama?
  • Elmer Rice's works embody expressionism through their focus on subjective experiences and emotional truths rather than objective narratives. In plays like 'The Adding Machine,' Rice uses innovative language and stage techniques to convey the psychological struggles of his characters. This approach aligns with the broader goals of expressionism, which sought to express complex emotions and highlight the alienation felt by individuals in modern society.
• Discuss the impact of 'The Adding Machine' on American theatre and its relevance to contemporary themes.
  • 'The Adding Machine' significantly impacted American theatre by introducing expressionist techniques that broke from traditional forms. Its exploration of themes such as industrialization, alienation, and the loss of individuality resonates with contemporary audiences facing similar issues in a technology-driven world. The play's emphasis on emotional experience continues to influence modern playwrights who seek to address social concerns through innovative storytelling.
• Evaluate Elmer Rice's contribution to the evolution of American drama and how it reflects broader societal changes during his time.
  • Elmer Rice's contributions to American drama represent a crucial shift toward exploring deeper emotional and psychological themes that mirrored societal changes in the early 20th century. His work not only challenged existing norms but also addressed critical issues like class struggle and dehumanization due to modernization. This evaluation highlights how Rice's innovative approach laid the groundwork for future theatrical movements, shaping the landscape of American theatre amidst significant social transformations.

Related terms

Expressionism: A modernist movement that originated in early 20th-century art and literature, characterized by the depiction of subjective emotions and responses rather than objective reality.

The Adding Machine: A landmark play by Elmer Rice that portrays the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and technology on individuals, highlighting themes of alienation and existential despair.

American Theatre: Theatrical performances and productions in the United States that have evolved over time, reflecting cultural, social, and political themes through various styles, including realism and expressionism.