30 pages • 1 hour read
Machinal
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Book Brief
96
Play • Fiction
New York City • 1920s
1928
Adult
18+ years
NP
Super Short Summary
Machinal by Sophie Treadwell tells the story of Helen, a young woman who feels trapped in a mechanized and oppressive society. Each of the nine episodic scenes depicts various stages of her life, from work and marriage to motherhood and beyond. Helen's struggle for freedom leads her to make drastic decisions, culminating in actions that shock society and ultimately lead to her execution.
Unnerving
Mysterious
Dark
Challenging
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
2,716 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Machinal by Sophie Treadwell garners praise for its evocative portrayal of a woman's struggle against societal oppression, with critics lauding its innovative expressionist style and compelling protagonist. However, some find the play's bleak tone and fragmented narrative challenging. Overall, it remains a powerful, thought-provoking work that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Who Should Read Machinal?
A reader who would enjoy Machinal by Sophie Treadwell is likely drawn to expressionistic plays and feminist themes. Similar to those captivated by Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House and Susan Glaspell's Trifles, they appreciate explorations of societal constraints on women and existential discontent within oppressive systems.
2,716 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
GEORGE JONES
GEORGE JONES
Helen's husband and manager of the business where she works, Jones exemplifies the patriarchal values of the time, emphasizing his own importance and dominance in both professional and personal realms.
HELEN’S MOTHER
HELEN’S MOTHER
A constant presence in Helen's life, Helen’s mother is insistent on traditional values and exerts pressure on Helen to conform, despite having abandoned her own dreams long ago.
THE LOVER
THE LOVER
An outlaw who engages in a brief, impactful encounter with Helen, encouraging her to ponder ideas of escape and rebellion without making any lasting promises.
96
Play • Fiction
New York City • 1920s
1928
Adult
18+ years
NP
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