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45 pages 1 hour read

Indecent

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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Paula Vogel

Indecent

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Europe • Early 20th Century

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Indecent by Paula Vogel tells the true story of Polish-Jewish writer Sholem Asch’s controversial 1906 play, The God of Vengeance, which explores love between two women and provokes an obscenity trial. The narrative follows the journey of the play from its creation in Warsaw to productions across Europe and America, highlighting themes of censorship, Jewish identity, and cultural resilience. This play discusses antisemitism, anti-gay bias, sexual violence, and the Holocaust.

Mysterious

Emotional

Dark

Nostalgic

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.6

1,528 ratings

88%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Indecent by Paula Vogel has garnered praise for its poignant storytelling and historical depth, bringing to life the complex themes of love, censorship, and cultural identity. Critics commend the powerful performances and innovative direction, though some mention the pacing can occasionally lag. Overall, it is celebrated for its emotional impact and thought-provoking narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Indecent?

Readers who appreciate Indecent by Paula Vogel are typically drawn to poignant, historical dramas exploring themes of love, censorship, and cultural identity. Comparable to aficionados of The Color Purple by Alice Walker or The Night Watch by Sarah Waters, they value nuanced narratives highlighting marginalized voices.

4.6

1,528 ratings

88%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Lemml

The stage manager of the troupe, who serves as a connection to the narration and the play's Jewish roots. He is deeply devoted to Sholem Asch's work.

The youngest woman in the troupe and the actress who plays multiple roles, including Rifkele and Madje Asch, reflecting different facets of the narrative's evolution over time.

The youngest man in the troupe, he portrays Sholem Asch and other key roles, showcasing the progression of the play and its impact on those involved.

An actress slightly older than Chana who plays Manke and various other roles, illustrating shifts in cultural and personal perceptions within the story.

An actor older than Avram, who plays a range of characters, reflecting on the play's interactions with societal norms and criticisms.

One of the oldest actors in the troupe, playing roles such as Sarah and older Madje Asch, bringing a seasoned perspective to the narrative and its historical context.

An older troupe member known for playing the controversial character of Yekel, as well as other roles that challenge and explore the story's thematic elements.

Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Europe • Early 20th Century

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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