Mister Roberts

Definition

Mister Roberts is a play written by Thomas Heggen and Joshua Logan that premiered in 1948, set during World War II on a cargo ship in the Pacific. It explores themes of duty, camaraderie, and the longing for freedom as it follows the interactions of the crew members, particularly focusing on the titular character, Lieutenant Doug Roberts, who struggles between his responsibilities and his desire for a more meaningful life beyond military obligations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The play is based on Heggen's experiences in the Navy during World War II, providing an authentic perspective on life aboard a cargo ship.
2. Lieutenant Doug Roberts is depicted as a compassionate officer who feels conflicted about his duty to his superiors versus his desire to support his men.
3. The character of Mister Roberts becomes a symbol of hope and rebellion against the drudgery of war, yearning for personal freedom and self-expression.
4. Mister Roberts was adapted into a successful film in 1960, further popularizing its themes and characters while maintaining the core message from the original play.
5. The play balances humor with serious themes, showcasing how the crew copes with the monotony of their situation while addressing the impact of war on their lives.

Review Questions

• How does Lieutenant Doug Roberts embody the struggle between duty and personal desire in Mister Roberts?
  • Lieutenant Doug Roberts represents the internal conflict faced by many military personnel during wartime. He is dedicated to his responsibilities as an officer yet feels stifled by the mundane and often dehumanizing environment aboard the cargo ship. His longing for freedom and a more meaningful existence drives much of the plot, highlighting the tension between his obligations to the Navy and his personal aspirations.
• Discuss how camaraderie among the crew members influences their experiences in Mister Roberts.
  • Camaraderie plays a vital role in shaping the dynamics among the crew in Mister Roberts. The relationships formed between characters serve as a source of support and resilience against the challenges they face during wartime. This bond allows them to cope with isolation and monotony, while also providing a backdrop for humor that contrasts with their serious circumstances, ultimately reinforcing their shared humanity amidst conflict.
• Evaluate the impact of Mister Roberts as a reflection of World War II literature and its broader implications for understanding military life.
  • Mister Roberts stands out within World War II literature by blending humor with poignant commentary on military life. It critiques the bureaucratic nature of military structures while celebrating individual bravery and friendships forged in adversity. The play's portrayal of service members grappling with their identities in wartime resonates with broader narratives found in war literature, contributing to discussions about duty, sacrifice, and personal fulfillment in extraordinary circumstances.

Related terms

War Literature: A genre of literature that reflects on the experiences and consequences of war, often highlighting the emotional and psychological impacts on soldiers and civilians.

Character Development: The process of creating a believable character in literature, involving their growth, conflicts, and relationships throughout the story.

Camaraderie: A spirit of friendship and community among individuals who share similar experiences, particularly in challenging situations like military service.