Plot Summary

The Caretaker

Harold Pinter
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The Caretaker

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1960

Book Brief

Harold Pinter

The Caretaker

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1960
Book Details
Pages

354

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

London • 1950s

Publication Year

1960

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Caretaker by Harold Pinter is a three-act tragicomedy about power dynamics and the intersecting lives of a lonely tramp named Davies and two brothers, Aston and Mick. Aston, who is vulnerable due to past trauma, invites Davies to stay with him, but tensions rise as Mick mistrusts Davies and their interactions become increasingly manipulative and confrontational.

Mysterious

Unnerving

Dark

Contemplative

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

3.9

4,115 ratings

59%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Caretaker by Harold Pinter receives acclaim for its sharp dialogue and complex characters, capturing the essence of human isolation and power dynamics. The play's minimalist setting and ambiguous motives provoke thought, yet its slow pacing and cryptic interactions may frustrate some viewers. Overall, it’s a compelling study of human nature and interaction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Caretaker?

Readers who enjoy The Caretaker by Harold Pinter are likely fans of absurdist and existentialist drama. They appreciate tension-filled, dialogue-driven plays exploring human psyche. Comparable works include Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot and Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?.

3.9

4,115 ratings

59%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

354

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

London • 1950s

Publication Year

1960

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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