Plot Summary

Anna Christie

Eugene O'Neill
Guide cover placeholder

Anna Christie

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1922

Book Brief

Eugene O'Neill

Anna Christie

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1922
Book Details
Pages

108

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1910s

Publication Year

1922

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Anna Christie by Eugene O'Neill follows the story of Anna Christopherson, a former prostitute who reunites with her estranged father, Chris, a barge captain. As Anna adapts to life on the barge, she meets a sailor named Mat Burke, leading to tensions and revelations about her past. Anna confronts her history, and despite challenges, she and Mat ultimately decide to marry. The play addresses themes of redemption, estrangement, and resilience. The plot includes mentions of sexual violence, abuse, and struggles with addiction.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Dark

Emotional

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

3.9

1,212 ratings

51%

Loved it

37%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews for Anna Christie by Eugene O'Neill reveal a compelling exploration of redemption and human connection, praised for its strong character development and realistic dialogue. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and the ending less impactful. Overall, it remains a powerful and poignant drama with notable performances enhancing its appeal.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Anna Christie?

A reader who enjoys gritty, character-driven dramas set against harsh maritime landscapes would be captivated by Eugene O'Neill’s Anna Christie. Fans of intense family dynamics and inner struggles, akin to those in Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire or Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, will find this work compelling.

3.9

1,212 ratings

51%

Loved it

37%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

108

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1910s

Publication Year

1922

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!