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156
Play • Fiction
Montreal, Quebec • 1960s
1968
Adult
18+ years
Les Belles-Soeurs by Michel Tremblay is a revolutionary Canadian play set in 1960s Montreal, where working-class housewife Germaine Lauzon invites her sisters, friends, and neighbors to help her paste one million trading stamps she wins. As they perform this mundane task, the women gossip, argue, and grapple with jealousy, revealing the struggles of working-class women in a changing Quebec society.
Gritty
Humorous
Emotional
Melancholic
Contemplative
Les Belles Soeurs by Michel Tremblay receives praise for its raw portrayal of working-class women in Quebec. Critics commend its authentic dialogue and biting humor but note its heavy use of local dialect might challenge some readers. The play’s ensemble cast and exploration of social issues earn high marks, though some find its bleakness overwhelming.
Readers who appreciate social satire, strong female perspectives, and domestic drama will enjoy Michel Tremblay's Les Belles Soeurs. Similar to those captivated by the wit and familial tension in Alan Ayckbourn's Absurd Person Singular, this audience values a keen exploration of working-class life and interpersonal relationships.
Linda Lauzon
Germaine's 20-year-old daughter who struggles with her mother's controlling nature and grapples with the expectations placed upon her by the older generation.
Rose Ouimet
Germaine's sister, known for her humor and outspoken nature, who navigates her dissatisfaction with life and her marriage.
Gabrielle Jodoin
Another of Germaine's sisters, who balances her role as a confidante with her own grievances about her social status and family life.
Lisette de Courval
A woman who attends Germaine's party, often feeling out of place due to her perceived higher social status and lavish lifestyle.
Marie-Ange Brouillette
One of Germaine's neighbors, who envies Germaine's win and views it as a testament to life's unfairness given her own struggles.
Yvette Longpré
A neighbor who enjoys the vicarious thrill of other people's success, particularly when discussing glamorous occasions.
Des-Neiges Verrette
An unmarried woman who longs for companionship, revealing the societal pressures and expectations she faces.
Thérèse Dubuc
Germaine’s sister-in-law who cares for her elderly mother-in-law and navigates complex family dynamics.
Olivine Dubuc
Thérèse’s 93-year-old mother-in-law, characterized by her advanced dementia and dependency on others for care.
Angéline Sauvé
A latecomer to Germaine's gathering who wrestles with the expectations of happiness and respectability in her life.
Rhéauna Bibeau
Angéline’s friend known for her pious and strict moral stance, which often leads her to judge others harshly.
Ginette Menard
Linda and Lise’s friend who reflects some of the conservative values of the preceding generation while dealing with family challenges.
Lise Paquette
A friend of Linda and Ginette, whose personal challenges and decisions highlight generational tensions and issues of autonomy.
Pierrette Guerin
Germaine’s sister who, despite being a source of scandal for her lifestyle, demonstrates loyalty and supportiveness to others.
156
Play • Fiction
Montreal, Quebec • 1960s
1968
Adult
18+ years
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